“Neither was falling in love,” he agreed.
“But you did.” She waited with bated breath for his assent. No matter what she thought she knew, he had to say it.
Andreas wrapped his arms fully around her, pulling her body flush with his, her chiffon skirts floating around his legs. His gaze met hers, darkened to emerald with emotion. “I did. I loved you six years ago.”
“But you thought love would make you weak.”
“I discovered something when you went haring off to New York.”
“Yes?”
“It wasn’t love that made me weak, it was the possibility of losing you.”
“That’s not what you said.”
“I’m stubborn.”
She leaned into him. “But in love.”
“Very much in love.”
“Your father isn’t the only one come over with honesty today.”
“Maybe his submission of pride made me realize it was time I did the same.”
“So, only pride kept you from admitting you love me?” She didn’t believe it.
The man was arrogant, but he would never hurt her for the sake of his pride.
“I was afraid. I’ve only loved one other person and I lost her.”
His mom. “You aren’t going to lose me. We just promised each other forever.”
“Losing my mom to cancer taught me that there is no forever, or even certainty of decades.” His words were cynical, but his hold on her spoke of his desire to keep Kayla close...forever.
“Our souls are entwined, Andreas. Even death cannot separate us.”
His smile was magical. “Some might think that a maudlin sentiment.”
“But not you?” She pressed her hand against his heart, warmed by the steady beat.
“No, not me.” He leaned down and gave her another of those amazing kisses before speaking again. “I love you, my wife, my Kayla, my partner, my friend.”
“I love you too, Andreas, with my whole heart.”
“Forever won’t be long enough.”
After a thoroughly satisfying kiss that ended with the wedding guests clapping and calling out encouragement, Andreas spoke again. “No, forever won’t be long enough.”
And she agreed.
* * * * *