“In some ways.” I take a step closer to her. “The majority is exactly the same.”
I’m right in front of her. The only thing separating us is her crossed arms. “What’s the same?”
“I’m still the boss.”
Her lips tighten, and I think she might smile. “You’re not the boss of me.”
Now I’m fighting a smile. “You were always too independent.”
“Can you live with that?”
“Can I touch you?” My insides are buzzing, and I want her in my arms.
Her arms uncross slowly. “I think we’ve reached an agreement.”
“Is that a yes?”
Reaching out, she traces her fingers along the sleeve of my coat. “It’s a yes, please.”
My arms sweep around her.
I’ve got her.
Her soft body feels like heaven in my arms, and I close my eyes, pressing my lips to her brow, inhaling deeply of her hair. It’s like standing on the top of a mountain. It’s like facing the ocean and breathing in eternity.
Her hand touches the back of my neck, and I dip down, finding her lips with mine. Our mouths seal together, and when our tongues touch, surges of warmth flood through my stomach. She makes a soft noise, and I need to take her home.
“God, I’ve missed you.” It’s a low whisper in her ear as she presses her cheek to mine.
“I love you, Patton Fletcher.”
Jesus. I didn’t think I could feel any better, but those words almost bring me to my knees.
Lifting my head, I find her eyes. “You do?”
The most beautiful smile splits her cheeks, and she nods, laughing. She blinks and two more crystal tears fall onto her cheeks.
I cup her face in my hands and wipe them away with my thumbs. “You’re going to marry me.”
“Oh, am I?” That feisty twinkle is in her eye.
“You are.” My arms tighten around her, pulling her closer. “None of this matters if you’re not here.”
“Then it will be Fletcher-Morgan International.”
A laugh breaks from my throat, and I lift my chin, holding her tighter. “God, I love you.”
“I love you.” I feel her lips press against my neck. “I’m going to love being your wife.”
“My little fighter.”
My eyes close, and I think about those words. She’s my wife. She’s a fighter. She’s exactly what I need on my side.
Maybe the fighting never stops, but with her in my corner, we can make it through the battles… no one left behind. She’s my family.
I’ll never forget.
The End.