Page 116 of His Surrender

“Nothing,” Sawyer answers far too quickly.

I point a warning finger at him. “Behave.”

“I always behave.”

Kayla snorts. “No, you don’t.”

He looks offended. “I behave … occasionally.”

Liana chooses this moment to let out a happy squeal from Kayla’s lap.

I honestly can’t believe she is almost five months old.

I walk over and scoop her into my arms. “Hey there, Peanut.”

She immediately wraps both hands around one of my fingers.

“I’ll be back before you know it.”

She blinks up at me like she understands every word. I kiss the top of her tiny head before handing her back to Kayla.

“If she gives you trouble⁠—”

“Dean,” Kayla interrupts with a smile, “I’ve got this.”

“I know.”

Sawyer grabs the diaper bag. “Now get out of here before you change your mind.”

“I wasn’t going to.”

“I know.” He grins. “But now I don’t have to listen to you pretend I wasn’t right … like always.”

I decide it’s best to ignore him and lead Aubrey toward the elevator. “Ready?”

She slips her hand into mine. “I’ve been ready.”

The elevator doors close behind us, leaving the noise of the apartment behind. For a few seconds, neither of us speaks.

She catches me staring, and she steps closer.

I don’t think. I simply reach for her.

My hand settles against her waist as I pull her gently toward me, capturing her lips in a kiss that is equal parts excitement and relief.

When we finally separate, she rests her forehead against mine, smiling.

The elevator chimes as it reaches the parking garage.

I lace our fingers together. “My driver’s waiting downstairs.”

She looks up. “No paparazzi?”

I shake my head. “We’ll go straight from the garage.”

I squeeze her hand. “For tonight, I just want you to enjoy being my date.”

The elevator doors slide open, and together, we step out into the quiet garage.