Page 36 of Flirt Away

“That we’re both slightly wounded when it comes to love, and we tried to protect ourselves but ended up hurting each other instead.”

“I’m sorry, Dixie. I overreacted when Rebecca brought up your blog. I should have at least listened to you.”

“I shouldn’t have written the posts without your permission.”

He palmed her cheek. “I don’t know about that. I’ve read and reread them a dozen times. They’re so beautiful, and I love how you express yourself and how it helps people. I don’t want to take that from you.”

“You’re not.”

“I’m still reading your blog, and the tone has changed. I hate that.”

“I think I’m still helping my readers.”

“Maybe,” he said. “But it’s not the same. I mean, if what you felt with me, and what has happened between us since, can help other couples—or women who struggle with feeling good about themselves—then I want to be a part of that.” He ran his hand through his hair. “You haven’t even asked me why I didn’t tell you about Erik.”

“Why didn’t you?”

“I wasn’t sure how you’d feel about me being bisexual or the fact that the only other person I’ve ever loved was a man. People judge you for being overweight. Well, I get the same judgments. But you’re not like that. Nor am I. And I don’t want to be the man who stops you from doing what you’re passionate about.”

“You’d really be okay if I put what happened between us in the beginning back up? The entire blog? And write more?”

“Yes, I would. I am. I only ask that, going forward, the specific details of our sex life stay private. Unless you discuss it with me and let me read it first. But the emotions… The growth. How women deal with their sexuality. Weight. Self-perceptions. All that, you need to write it. And you need to do it from the heart.” He tapped the center of her chest. “I love you, Dixie. I don’t want to be the person who prevents you from being you. I want to be the man who supports you and stands by you.”

She swiped the tear that escaped her eye. “Can I put that in my blog?”

He laughed. “Only if you tell me you still love me.”

“I might have to think about that.” She flung her arms around his body, only she did so a little too aggressively.

Splash!

The chilly water clung to her clothes. She kicked her feet and swiped her wet hair from her face. She popped up from the water and looked around.

Zane shook his head like a wet dog. “Are you okay?” He pulled her to the dock.

“Just cold and drippy.”

“You and me both.” He jumped up onto the wooden planks and offered her a hand but then yanked it back.

“Hey.”

“No help from me until I hear the words.”

“That’s a little childish, don’t you think?” She took her hand and smacked it against the surface of the water, splashing his face.

“No more than what you just did.” He wrung out some of his hair.

She smiled. “You’re a big pain in the ass. But I love you anyway. Now help me up.” She took his hand.

And yanked.

“Oh, you’re—” He fell into the water wearing a grin. He popped back up and shook his head. “…in big trouble.”

She wrapped her arms around his shoulders. “You’re the only sweet temptation I’ll ever need.”

He took her mouth in a slow, hot kiss. In that moment, she knew she was right where she belonged. She’d found her forever, and here in his arms is where she’d stay.