Page 104 of The Love Position

‘Will we be okay getting back to the island?’ Sophia asked.

‘I hope so. It depends on when we can get you seen. I can ring the ashram and find out, and also text Ganapati.’

Sophia chewed her bottom lip. ‘I love nature, but not when it’s being unfriendly.’

Isaac smiled. ‘I know what you mean. I like a good thunderstorm, but only when I’m inside, looking out.’

‘You’re not worried about a tree falling on your house?’

‘They’re in good condition and young enough to stay upright. Plus, the other trees act as a buffer, lessening the force of any wind.’

‘I love your house. It couldn’t be more perfect.’

I could say the same about you…

Isaac’s heart thumped louder. They hadn’t spoken much about the future, only that they would keep their relationship platonic until they were home.

But now he’d made the decision to renounce his vow and knew he loved her, he didn’t want to waste any more time.

‘Sophia… When we get back to Foxbrooke, would you like to…’ He swallowed, trying to find the words that wouldn’t scare her off. ‘…stay with me?’

Her eyes went wide.

‘Or not,’ he added hurriedly.

Sophia shook her head rapidly, and Isaac’s heart sank.

‘Sorry, I was getting ahead of myself. We don’t—’

‘No! I mean yes!’ she interrupted, her pale cheeks glowing. ‘Yes, I would very much like to, er…’ She lowered her voice. ‘Stay with you in your perfect house, with your perfect self, giving me perfect kisses.’

Relief flooded through him.

‘For, um… for how long?’ she asked shyly.

‘If I’m honest, will you run away?’

She held up a crutch. ‘For many reasons, that scenario will not be taking place.’

He grinned and took her hands. Her eyes were bright, but he could still see anxiety, her teeth biting into her plump lower lip.

‘I’d like you to stay forever. Or as long as you’re happy there.’

Sophia let out a little squeal of excitement, and Isaac’s heart soared.

‘Is this for real?’ she whispered.

‘Us?’

She nodded.

‘Yes. It’s the most real I’ve ever felt. You’re incredible.’

Isaac wanted to say more. He wanted to tell Sophia he loved her, stand on the plastic chair and announce it to the waiting room, go outside and yell it to the wind.

But he stayed quiet, biding his time as he revelled in her happiness.

‘I used to think I must have been a very bad person in a former life because of what has happened to me this year,’ Sophia began. ‘But now I know I must have been a saint. Nothing else can explain how lucky I feel right now.’

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