“I guess.” He pushed off the wall and took her hand. “Claire’s probably right, we should be out there. But it’s a good thing we have two days off after this. I don’t plan on doing anything but you.”
Mia’s neck flushed with heat.“Noah.”
“What?” He didn’t sound the least bit apologetic.
She just shook her head and grinned as they made their way to the living room. Noah’s dad intercepted him, pulling him away almost immediately, probably to discuss some new hobby he’d picked up. So far in retirement he’d gone through several, from things like organic gardening to tracing his entire family ancestry. A couple of months ago he’d almost bought a boat before Noah talked him out of it.
Mia’s mom waved to her from the food table, and Mia’s stomach growled. She made her way over and gave her mom a side hug as she perused the options.
“This is a great turnout,” her mom said.
Mia’s heart swelled as she looked at the family and friends filling the room. “It feels surreal. I can’t believe I’m finally done.”
Her mom squeezed her arm, careful not to jostle the plate Mia was piling high with food. “We’re so proud of you.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
After she’d finished eating she made her way around the room, chatting and accepting congratulations and well wishes from everyone. Some asked what her plans were, and she was happy to report she already had a job lined up with a local pediatrics group.
An hour had passed and she kept looking for Noah, but had only seen a glimpse of him once.
Suddenly a warm, large hand gripped hers and his familiar scent filled her senses. He pressed a kiss to her cheek before he winked and walked away again, leaving her with a frown on her face and a folded piece of paper in her hand.
She unfolded the small note, and laughed.
Meet me at the tree house in 5?
She cast her gaze around the room, searching for her husband. He was by the kitchen island, leaning one arm against the granite, perfectly at ease. He’d already joined a conversation with someone, but must have felt her looking at him and lifted his eyes. He grinned, a secret, sexy smile just for her, and cocked one brow.
With a saucy look of her own, Mia gave him a little nod and glanced at the clock.
Let the countdown begin.