Page 98 of The Marine

“I’ll take both.”

“Good decision. I’m starving.” Aidan laughs as I take off my leather jacket and accept the glass of wine he offers me.

“So, this is an amazing home.” I sit on the kitchen stool and try not to have an orgasm as I watch him pick up a utensil and start cooking.

Domestic Aidan is just as hot as Marine Aidan, and I’m here for it all.

For one night only.

“Thanks. I moved in a few years ago. Had it decorated.”

“Oh yeah. You didn’t do all this?” I tease.

“Yes. If you consider opening the email and approving the design and paying the invoice,” he says over his shoulder after sliding the salmon into the oven. “Although I did brief them on what I wanted.”

Impressive.

“Well, I guess you could have a black leather sofa, a TV twice the needed size, and a beer fridge.” I chuckle, giving credit where credit is due.

He leans his hip against the marble , picking up his glass of wine and taking a sip. There’s the most adorable humor in his eyes and I am trying really hard not to fall madly in love with him.

“I do. It’s down at the other end of the house.” He smirks. “There’s also a pool table.”

“Of course there is.” I laugh.

I jump off the stool and wander around the living area. It’s got such a homely feel for a man and while he didn’t decorate it, I know the designer would have asked for a brief and given him a few different looks to choose from.

He chose this one.

The sofa is gray, but the cushions and throws soften the space, and the wall art gives it a luxurious and stylish finish.

I walk to the large glass doors, which look out to the yard. There is a pool and garden which needs some care and attention.

“That’s my next project.” Aidan says, coming up behind me. His hand lands on my hip and I lean back into him.

“It has potential.” I close my eyes for a brief moment and imagine living here. Having our friends over for Fourth of July barbeques, Christmas. Getting married.

Having kids.

Making love on the thick white rug behind us.

I turn. “It’s really lovely. I’m happy for you.”

Aidan cups my face and the air grows heavy between us. I know he wants to talk, but I’d rather just enjoy our night together.

I press my body into his and his thumb rubs over my cheekbone.

“I’m not letting you run away this time Briar. I am keeping you.”

I close my eyes, willing the tears away.

“Aidan,” I whisper.

“You are meant to be mine. You always have been.”

I slip out of his grasp, and he follows me back to the kitchen. I don’t know if I can do this. My feelings are taking over my logical thinking.

When I turn, he’s behind me.

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