Page 100 of For One Night

I turn over, facing her. “What’s up?”

“I wanted to thank you. No one has ever done anything like this for me.” Her gaze is locked with mine.

“You’re welcome.”

There’s nothing I want more than to kiss her right now. Laying here, feeling her heart beat with mine, telling her silently how amazing she is, how much she already means to me, and to let her know I’ll never leave her, and how much I’ve always needed her.

I squeeze my eyes tight as the light from the window shines into them. I pry them open with sheer will power. No way will I make it through this day without falling over. Suddenly, I realize I’m not alone.

Lola’s tangled around me, making me sweaty and hot. Her hair is wrapped around my hand as she lays on my arm. She’s even more perfect like this, if that’s possible. No makeup, her hair wild and everywhere, and the most important thing, in my arms.

She rouses and slowly opens her eyes. “Now who’s being creepy?”

“That would be me,” I chuckle. “My next suggestion would be, don’t look down and definitely do not bump into me.”

“You’re a horrible … tease.” She winks.

“We need to get going.”

She stretches. “I can’t remember the last time I slept so well.”

“If I’m judging by your snoring, I’d say it’s been awhile.”

Her mouth gapes. “Please tell me you’re joking?”

“Little bit.” I stand as she throws a pillow at me. “Hey! Be nice.”

She gets up on her knees, killing me softly. “Thank you for last night.”

“Always, Lola.” I half shrug. “It was a pleasure.”

She drops her head. “It was Carter. He said so many horrible things because I’m here with you, alone.” She shakes her head. “I know what he thinks doesn’t matter, he knows so well how to push my buttons.”

“Stop rising to the occasion.”

“I’m working on it.” She licks her lips. “I want to move on. I want more than this life has to offer, but I can’t bring all of this baggage with me.”

“I don’t mind baggage. I’m willing to help carry anything for you.” I turn and pause. “When you’re ready.”

The day passes quickly, and we’re on our way back to Cherry Grove by nightfall. I drive her home, helping her to the door.

“Thank you for going. I learned so much, and I’m excited to implement some new things.”

“You’re welcome, it was an amazing experience.” She grips her doorknob.

I step back, allowing her room. “Go ahead, I want to make sure you get in and you’re safe.”

She walks in, shutting the door behind her. My shoulders slump with the heaviness in my chest. I walk away, hating that I’m leaving her without telling her everything, without her knowing what she means to me.