Page 14 of Merry with a Captain

"When's the last time you were home?" he asked.

They stopped at her door and she swiped her key card.

"Probably two years, maybe three. Time has gone by way too fast. It’s hard to keep track.” She pushed the door closed behind them, and he waited for her before going further into her room.

"Maybe you could go home this year," he suggested and walked over to the window to look out.

"The drive is too long, and I only have a few days off so it doesn't really make it worthwhile." She joined him at the window. "Isn't that a pretty view?"

They stood shoulder to shoulder, gazing down at the Christmas lights below. Close enough that the backs of their hands brushed, making Robyn want to hold his. But she resisted. A beat later he took hers.

“What about you? Have a home to go to?”

"No, not really. Your family sounds very nice. The only people I have that I call family are my business partners, and they’re away for the holidays."

"You're all alone too." She squeezed his hand. "Maybe we could spend it together. That way neither of us will be alone or lonely."

She looked up at him. He faced her, still holding her hand. The expression in his eyes was not one she seen her before. Pain. Robyn raised her hand and rested it against his cheek. He closedhis eyes for the briefest moment and then wrapped his arms around her. She hugged him back and breathed him in.

He smelled like the outdoors, wild, with a hint of the sea, and wood smoke. It reminded her of home. She tightened her arms around him and let the memories of Christmases past takeover.

"Would you come home with me?" she whispered against his neck.

Had she really invited him? She couldn’t believe it. Nothing like putting him on the spot, but something about him made her impulsive and daring. He didn't answer, and she wondered if he heard her. But she didn't want to ask again.

They stayed wrapped in each other's arms for a few more moments until Fletch took a step back. He tipped her chin up with his finger.

"I don't know what to say. Your invitation to your family home for Christmas is a surprise.” He gazed down at her and she was lost in his eyes, unable to find words for a second.

"I know, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to put you on the spot,” she continued and knew she was rambling but couldn’t stop herself. “Don't feel obligated to come. I guess in the heat of the moment I just blurted out the words. We barely know each other, I understand that. Please just think on it. Like I said, no rush or obligation."

She stepped away from him and twisted her fingers together. She was embarrassed, especially just when everything seemed to be settling down during and after dinner. They seemed to be finding their footing, and her impulsivity may have gotten in the way.

“Robyn,I didn't mean it was a surprise in a negative way. You're right, we're just getting to know each other, but what I do know is I like you. A lot. "

He crossed the room and placed his hands on her shoulders. She turned to face him, her eyes large and luminous. The expression in them made him want to gather her in his arms and soothe her worry.

"I like you a lot too. I know this is all so quick, but the night we spent together was amazing. I regret that I had to leave the next day, and the way I left with only a note." She lifted her hands to rest them on his forearms. "I left you that night, and I'm not the kind of person that spends the night with a random person. But, there was something about you that made it okay, and weirdly I trusted you.”

He smiled. "Well, I guess I'm just that kind of guy. I give off the friendly vibes. And, you can trust me." He squeezed her shoulders and then took her hands in his. "I'm glad tonight happened. I think if it hadn't, I would've always wondered about you.”

"Oh," she breathed. "I think I would have as well."

"I have an idea. What do you say we start fresh?" he suggested, and he had a feeling she would be all for it.

"I love that idea. And we can table the whole visit to Vermont so there's no pressure." Her excitement was infectious.

“How about this. If you're free tomorrow, why don't we do something? Go to a movie, grab a coffee, go for a drive. That way we can continue this getting to know you stage,” he suggested.

As much as he would love to spend the night with her, he felt it would be best if they took it a little slower. And he hoped she felt the same.

She tilted her head and chuckled. "Seeing you walk out that door will be really hard. I'd love for you to stay, but I totally understand where you're coming from. So yes, I like that idea very much."

He walked towards the door, holding her hand. “Good. We could make a day of it if you like, and we can start with breakfast. I know this great little local joint."

"Sounds like a plan," she replied.

"How about I pick you up about 8 o'clock? Too early, not early enough?"

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