Page 93 of Love You Madly

I tuck my lips inward and bite back a giggle that’s trying to escape. “I’m pretty sure I was eight…,” I say, unable to hide my laugh any longer.

“I forget that you’re nine years younger than me.”

“It must be because I’m so mature for my age,” I reply sarcastically.

Owen chuckles, shaking his head. “You definitely keep me on my toes. But seriously, London sounds amazing. We should go someday.”

I laugh, feeling a flutter of excitement at the thought. “That would be incredible. What about you? Where would you go?”

“Jamaica,” he replies with a smile. “I’ve beenbefore, and it’s beautiful. The beaches, the culture, the music. I’d love to go back.”

I smirk, remembering the story he told me about his cousin getting into trouble there. “Hopefully, your cousin doesn’t get us into any sketchy situations while we’re out.”

Owen chuckles, shaking his head. “Yeah, I’ll leave him at home this time.”

We continue to share our dreams and aspirations, the conversation flowing effortlessly. I feel a deep connection with him, and I’m grateful for this moment.

“Callie, I need you to know how much you mean to me,” he says quietly, his eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that makes my heart race. “Talking these last few months has been incredible, and finally meeting you has been even better. I’m so glad we’re more than just friends now.”

My chest tightens with emotion. “I feel the same way, Owen. You’ve brought so much joy into my life, and I’m so glad you didn’t keep me in the friend zone.”

He smiles, squeezing my hand gently. “Me too.”

As we finish our meal, we step outside into the crisp night air. The walk to our vehicles is filled with charged silence. Owen stops suddenly, cups my face in his hands, and kisses me with an intensity that sends shivers down my spine. His kiss is hungry and passionate, and I respond with equal fervor. When we break apart, we are both breathing hard.

“I don’t want this night to end,” I confess.

Owen smiles, his dark eyes pouring into mine. “Would you like to come see my apartment?” he inquires.

I stare at him for a moment in stunned silence. “What about your three-date rule?”

“Oh, that still applies. Coming back to my place doesn’t mean I expect sex.”

“Fair point.”

“I don’t give away my cinnamon that easily,” he says.

“Your what?!”

“My cinnamon,” he shrugs.

I cannot help but laugh. This man is ridiculous. But I am here for it. “Sounds tasty,” I say with a wink.

“Easy there, tiger.”

“Oh, come on, it’s not my fault. Don’t expect me not to get worked up when you kiss me like that," I tease innocently.

“You’re right,” he says, leaning in to kiss my cheek softly, his warm breath tickling my ear. “Besides, something tells me you’re more of a ‘Kitty’ than a tiger.”

Oh, my God.

forty

GIRL, I WANNA LAY YOU DOWN - ALO FEAT. JACK JOHNSON

OWEN - JULY 19, 2013

After dinner, we drive separately to my apartment so she doesn’t have to leave her car in Iowa City overnight. I spend the entire drive home trying to tame the growing bulge against my zipper thanks to the way she kissed me. And I didn’t miss the heat in her gaze at my little “Kitty” comment.

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