Page 62 of When Love Is Unexpected

I smile and dial Katherine.

Adam picks up on the first ring.

"Sorry to wake you," I say. "Can I speak to Katherine?"

"Is everything okay?" he asks.

"Yes, everything's fine."

"Katie," I hear him whisper. "Babe, it's your sister."

"Which one?" I hear Katherine ask groggily.

"Which one do you think?" asks Adam.

"Laila," Katherine says when she comes on. "This better be good."

"Sam kissed me!" I exclaim in the most excited, quiet voice I can muster.

"It's about time," she says. "Who initiated it, you or him?"

"Does it matter?" I ask.

"Well, no, but I'd like to know."

"I did," I say.

"How was it?" she asks.

"It was perfect."

"Good," says Katherine. "Call me when you get to San Diego. Good night."

"Good night," I say.

Before I end the call, I hear Adam ask, "So how was it?"

Followed by my sister's response, "Here, let me show you."

***

In the morning, we stop at the Coffeehouse on our way to pick up Sam and pick up chocolate croissants and coffee for everyone.

When Sam climbs into the car next to me after putting his luggage in the trunk, he leans over and kisses me. I can't believe this is really happening.

After he puts his seatbelt on, he reaches for my hand.

At the airport, I kiss my parents goodbye. Sam hugs Mom, and when he shakes Dad's hand, Dad says, "Take care of my daughter, Son. I expect her to return home in the same exact condition she's in right now."

"I'm not a car, Daddy," I say, laughing.

"You know what I mean, Princess," says Dad.

"Yes, sir," says Sam, making direct eye contact with Dad.

"I love you guys," I say before Sam takes my hand, and we walk into the airport.

We mostly sleep during the flight. I wake up once to find Sam looking at me. "You're beautiful," he says. "I can't wait for everyone to meet you."

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