Page 143 of A Whole New Play

The twins step back as I get to my feet. They move to stand at my side as I stare at the beautiful woman in front of me—the one I’m determined to win back. No matter what it takes.

Valerie’s eyes widen as she takes in my heated expression. “Carter?”

I could lay my heart at her feet in a long, pretty speech. I could declare myself in front of my children.

But I have a better idea.

Not giving myself time to convince myself this is a bad idea, I stride forward and cup either side of her face.

Valerie’s eyes flare in surprise just before my lips descend on hers. I kiss her soundly, uncaring that I’m doing this in front of a raucous crowd. I barely register the encouraging cheers of those standing close by, witnessing this moment. All I care about is showing Valerie how much I missed her.

The noose that’s been wrapped around my heart unravels when she kisses me back.

Seconds later, I force myself to break the kiss. I search her face for what she’s feeling. Her lovely olive cheeks are tinted pink. Her lips are swollen.

“Wow.”

I crack a smile. “I hope that’s a good wow.” I slide my hands down to rest on her hips, thankful that she doesn’t immediately step out of my reach.

“It was a very good wow,” she murmurs back. Her eyes dart between mine, searching. “I’m just not sure I know what it means.”

Pretty speech it is.

“I want to get back together.”

She blinks. “You do?”

“More than fucking anything.”

“Language, Dad!” Andy chastises.

I glance at my son over my shoulder. “Sorry.” Both he and Abby are grinning. It makes me smile in return. My smile grows when I hear Valerie laugh.

I turn back around and I let all of my feelings show on my face. “I never should have ended things between us.”

“No,” she agrees. “You shouldn’t have.”

I take a deep breath. “I’m sorry. I thought I was doing what was best for you.”

“You’re what’s best for me.”

Her words are a balm to my wounded soul.

My fingers flex where I grip her hips. “Will you be my girlfriend… again?” I shoot her a sheepish grin.

She tilts her head to the side in contemplation. “That depends.”

“On what?”

“On whether or not you’re okay with long distance.” She looks uncertain. “At least for a few months.”

My arms slip around her back. “I’d do one hundred months of long distance if that’s what it takes for you to be mine again.”

The corner of her mouth lifts into a haughty smirk. She rises on her toes and wraps her hands behind my neck. “I think you’ve got it bad for me, Carter Jones.”

I stare into her eyes and bring her closer to my chest. “Valerie Palmer, you have no fucking idea.” I seal the words with another kiss and reprimand from my children for my word choice.

For someone who felt like he barely had his shit together not even a year ago, things have sure turned around.

---