Page 73 of A Forever Love

“Or like picking up where we left off?”

“I know the perfect movie.” She shivers as I plant a kiss on her soft skin.

We settle on the couch, and when Merida turns her laptop toward me, the cinch in my heart grows as the opening credits of Twilight appear on the screen.

19

MERIDA

Merida- Age 14

Carter – age 25

“What are we watching today?” Carter plops down on the floor beside me, placing the takeaway bag from Tiki’s in front of us.

“Twilight.”

“Mere, no. That’s a—”

“It’s a PG-13 movie. You can’t fool me anymore. You know how silly I sounded today in class when all my friends were gushing about how hot Robert Pattinson looked as Edward Cullen, while I told everyone that I’m not allowed to see it? If you’re not up for it, then I’m going home. I’m sure Clem would be more than happy to keep me company.”

“But what about our deal? We never watch a movie for the first time without each other. That’s when you share your unfiltered review.”

“Then lean back and let me hit play.”

“Mere, have you read the reviews?” Carter shakes his head firmly. “This movie isn’t suitable for teenage girls. It portrays an unhealthy image of romantic relationships. You have a voice, and I don’t care if it’s a man or a freaking vampire, you shouldn’t be silenced. If I had read those reviews earlier, I’d have never given you the books.”

“Thank you for your concern, but as a teenage girl, I won’t be silenced against watching this epic movie. Also, to ease your mind, I’d like to inform you that I’m watching it for Rob. And please, stop reading those nonsensical reviews. They’re mostly biased.”

Before I can hit play, he takes hold of my hand. “But I reserve the right to pause if I feel it’s not appropriate for you.”

“Okay, Dad. Can I please start now?”

* * *

Carter remains silent as the movie unfolds. The tension between us lingers, and I can’t believe we kissed. We freaking kissed. Not just in front of others, but he kissed me on the balcony like he couldn’t bear another second without touching me, as if he was burning with the same desire as I was.

“Um, so we’ll talk tomorrow?” I tear my gaze away from the screen, which is already hazy because there’s a more captivating reel playing in my mind.

Carter nods.

“And that kiss didn’t happen in my dream?”

He leans in and kisses my lips once more. “Does this seem more real?”

I nod, gnawing on my bottom lip. “Maybe you should do some more so I don’t forget again.”

He rests his forehead against mine and closes his eyes. “Have some mercy, mittens. I’m just a man.”

My gaze drifts to his pants, and the evident erection he’s sporting is nothing short of extraordinary. “You’re so not just a man.”

Carter holds my face between his hands and smiles. “You’ve always been good for my ego.”

“What else do you like about me?”

“Fishing for compliments, are we?” He arches an eyebrow, and warmth fills me as I see him happy with me.

“Since that’s the only thing you’re giving tonight, yeah.” I bite my lip, feeling proud of my clever comeback even as my insides flutter.

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