Page 53 of Through the Storm

“I almost didn’t recognize you.” He’s still smiling like he’s a littlestunned. “You look… different.”

“Good different?” I ask, my heart thudding.

“Very good different.” He smiles again. “Like I missed a few important chapters.”

Something warm flutters low in my stomach.

“Ben.” I hesitate, not sure what I’m about to say next.

He reaches for my hand, lifts it to his lips, then settles it in his lap, his thumb stroking the back of it.

My breath hitches.

He turns toward me fully, those light blue eyes undoing me. Then his hand comes up slowly, like he’s giving me time to stop him, and tucks a strand of hair behind my ear.

“You good?” he asks quietly.

I nod.

That’s all it takes.

He leans in just a little, like he’s testing gravity. I meet him halfway.

The kiss is soft at first. Curious. Like we’re both checking to see if this is really happening.

His hand rests at my jaw, steady and warm. My fingers curl into his jacket without thinking. The kiss deepens, not rushed, not desperate. Just full.

When we pull back, my forehead rests against his.

“Wow,” I breathe.

He laughs softly. “Yeah.”

I open my eyes and meet his. The question is already there, unspoken.

“Do you want to come in?” I ask.

“Katy...” He closes his eyes briefly.

“I really don’t think that’s a good idea,” he says, looking torn.

My chest tightens. “Oh.”

Then, softer, honest, I blurt out, “I don’t want this to end.”

He goes still.

“I’ve missed you so much.” The words spill out before I can stop them. “I didn’t realize how much until tonight.”

His eyes darken, something tender and hungry flickering across his face.

“Katy,” he murmurs.

And then he kisses me again.

“Come inside,” I whisper against his lips. “Please. I’m not sixteen anymore.”

He pauses. Searches my face.