Page 111 of Risky Move

“I will not touch that subject right now. I was thinking about an apartment downtown, close to school, and the hospital?”

“You never mentioned moving before. How can you leave your niece and nephew? Caryn and Andrew would protest. You have a perfect set up there.”

“Not without you. After this week, I don’t wish to go back to hoping our paths cross occasionally. I love you and want to spend as much time as possible with you.” He lightly brushed his hand against her cheek. “We don’t need to decide anything now, Cass. I do know it’s time to quit freeloading off Andrew and Caryn. Andrew and I have had this discussion many times since I completed my residency. The thought of you moving in with me jump-starts the desire for my own place.”

Cassie blinked to contain the sudden onrush of tears. “You’re a major part of the family. What would Danny and Jenna do without Uncle Tommy? Or Caryn or Andrew?” She pressed her fingers against his lips. “I’ve seen how much everyone depends on you. Don’t take that away in the middle of the season. Caryn has enough stress with the twins.”

He shook his head as he leaned to kiss her forehead. “We won’t desert Caryn during the season. We can help as a couple…whatever makes you feel most comfortable. Let’s discuss this later, okay? But please think about choosing a place to live with me. Okay?”

Cassie nodded, then Tom continued.

“Let’s make the most of the time we do have in Sanibel. I’ll order breakfast, and why don’t you think if there’s anything you’d like to see ordothis morning.” Cassie caught the emphasis on “do,” and his wink with a smirk sent warm tingly sensations rippling through her body.

60

The closer they drove toward Tampa, the deeper the anxiety crept into Cassie’s brain. She’d spoken with Lauren earlier. The last of Dave’s family had departed that morning.So, I don’t have to meet a bunch of new people and make nice. I’m sure Dave’s family’s just as wonderful as he is…just too much right now…brain’s stuffed with emotions I need to sort through.

What about college? Maybe there’s a university in Fort Myers?Does Tom really want to move out of the house—or is he doing that just for me? How will “forever” feel to him once we’re back in the regular routine? At least, his normal routine. My only schedule—going to class part-time.Maybe she could find a job to save more money before switching to full-time student status? Surely, she had the skill set to work in a boutique. Maybe where Amelie’s working?If she hasn’t talked her way into becoming the twins’ nanny…Why can’t I just push all this negativity to the recesses of my brain? Overthinking much, Johnson?

She closed her eyes, pretending to fall asleep. Will Tom experience a reality check when he spends time at home with Andrew and Caryn? Cassie absently twirled her new ring around her finger. Is it fair to hold Tom to a promise if it causes a rift between him and his brother’s family? Especially a commitment made during a magical escape from reality?

* * *

Tom gently touched Cassie’s shoulder after he’d pulled into the Martin’s driveway. She’d slept most of the way back, and he hated to wake her. When she didn’t respond, he walked around to the passenger side and leaned to brush his lips against her temple.

“Wake up, Sleeping Beauty.” He saw the smile spread across her face as she murmured his name. When she didn’t open her eyes, Tom reached across her to unfasten her seat belt. “Shall I carry my princess home?”

Cassie’s eyes popped open, and she looked around her. “Tell me I didn’t sleep the entire way home? I’m so sorry, Tom.”

“For what? You make these adorable sounds when you’re asleep.”

Cassie cut her eyes toward him. “I was snoring?”

“Just a hushed little sound every so often.” Tom stood and offered his hand to assist Cassie.

“I can’t believe I failed as your navigator.” Cassie slipped her arms around his neck. “Thank you for an unforgettable week. I felt like I was dreaming the entire time…I don’t want to go back to the real world.”

“Remember—reality is a state of mind. We can make every day amazing—just seeing you smile, whatever colors you use on your hair—that’s as good as any dream. I’ll call foul if you don’t add those touches of color again.”

“Your preference, my brave knight?”

Tom laughed and pulled her closer for a kiss. “Any and all colors.” He popped the trunk open. “I’m jumping back into reality in a couple hours when I walk inside the hospital.”

“Anyone home?” Cassie called when they opened the front door. When no one replied, she walked Tom toward her bedroom/Lauren’s office. “Home, sweet…”

“I’d help you unpack if I didn’t need to head into town.” Tom set her suitcase on the bed. “I should be home tomorrow night.”

He saw the smile that could brighten even the cloudiest day. “Can’t wait.” Cassie took his hand as they retraced their steps. “How can I ever thank you enough? Everything was just perfect.”

“Start planning our next road trip, babe. I’d enjoy even just a couple days with you, Cassie.” He brushed hair away from her face and his hand trailed against her cheek, before he kissed her. “Don’t forget, I love you.”

A devilish grin spread across her face. “Love you more.”

* * *

Tom showered and changed into clothes suitable for work before walking to the main house. The happy sounds of toddler chatter greeted him and found his brother in the kitchen, preparing a meal for Jenna and Daniel.

“Discovering hidden talents?” Tom teased as he kissed Daniel, then Jenna.

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