Page 67 of Melting for the Firefighter
“Then come home to me because you choose me.”
Her mouth trembles.
“You make terrible eggs.”
“I’ll learn.”
“Your house needs color.”
“Bring all of it.”
“I’m filling your guest room with craft supplies.”
“It’s already full.”
“We’ll clean it.”
“Whatever you want.”
Her eyes search mine.
“I love you,” she says.
The words hit every broken place inside me and make something whole.
“Say it again.”
“I love you, Lance.”
I pull her into my arms.
Her mouth meets mine before I can reach for it.
The kiss tastes like tears and lemonade. She grips the back of my shirt and presses close enough that I feel every soft curve against me.
I force myself to lift my head before I forget we are standing in Tessa’s living room.
“Come home.”
Cora shakes her head.
“Ask properly.”
I understand.
I cup her face.
“Stay with me, Cora. After the shop is rebuilt. After you have your own money and do not need anything from me.”
Her eyes fill again.
“Stay because I love you. Stay because I want you in my bed, in my house, and in every part of my life.”
I press my forehead to hers.
“I do not want another day without you in it.”
Her smile breaks open.
