“I’m still figuring out the details, but the one thing essential to every plan I’ve considered is you.” He took her hand in his.
“I’ve fallen in love with you. I want more than a relationship. I want a life. Nothing short of forever is going to be enough.”
“Kelly—”
“You don’t have to say it back, and you might not be there—”
“Kelly!” He stopped his ramble to meet her watery gaze.
“I love you! I want that too. You gave me back a part of my soul I thought was lost forever.” She smiled. “There’s no way in hell I’m letting you go.”
He chuckled.
“I like that.”
“It doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. You owe me for the no show.”
“Fair enough, what do you want?”
“To stay at your place while I recover, and all the pleasure I can handle.”
“You still have to heal.”
“Then I guess you’d better be creative.”
He smirked and leaned forward. Her lips brushed hers.
“I think I’m up to the challenge.”
“Hmm. I think I need a sample of your work, Detective.”
“By all means let me show you.” Their lips met, and his lids lowered as he lost himself in sensations. The slow, thorough lovemaking of lips reassured him the risk he’d taken was the right one. Life without Claire Reading was no longer an option. They’d been each other’s salvation, and now they would enjoy a newfound happiness together.
The End