Page 41 of Possessed By Roman

For a moment, I can't speak.

I’ve known what I feel for her for days, even if I haven't been willing to name it. But saying it makes everything real. It means there is no pretending that this is simply attraction or some intense connection created by a dangerous situation.

“You got under my skin before I even realized it was happening, Cora Ryke. I love you.”

Her eyes immediately fill. I pull her against me before either of us can say anything else, holding her tightly while the words settle between us.

By the time Dan comes back down the hallway, Cora and I are still standing together. He's wearing the T-shirt and sweatpants I gave him, both a little too big, his damp hair pushed back from his face.

His gaze moves between us. “Cora is right, you know.” Cora looks at me with a triumphant little smile. “I told him you would approve.”

Dan sighs and looks directly at me. “There’s a reason I called you when this started.” I straighten. “When I realized what was happening, I could have called anyone, but I called you because I trusted you to protect my daughter.”

My throat tightens. Dan continues, “I know exactly what kind of man you are, Roman.” I wait for the rest. “But I also know what kind of man you are when it matters.” Something in my chest loosens.

He looks toward Cora, then back at me. “If something good came out of this entire mess, I’m not going to stand in the way of it.”

“You’re serious?” I ask.

“Don’t make me regret it.”

A laugh escapes me. “Wasn’t planning on it.”

“Good.”

He turns toward Cora. “Now, I’m going to sleep before you decide I need another medical examination.”

Cora hugs him carefully before letting him go, and this time, when Dan disappears down the hallway, I know exactly where I stand.

***

Later, after Dan has settled into the spare room, Cora and I lie together in my bed.

She is quiet for a while. “What are you thinking about?”

“Atlanta.”

I turn toward her. “What about it?”

“I’ve been thinking about transferring to a school here. There are psychology programs in Atlanta I could look into.”

I stare at her.

“I’d still finish my degree,” she continues. “I just wouldn’t have to be so far away from you.”

My gaze softens. “You’ll stay with me?”

She smiles. “With you.”

I pull her closer. “If you transfer here, you’re not living in a dorm.”

Her eyebrows rise. “Oh?”

“No.”

She starts laughing. “Roman.”

“You heard me.”