Page 35 of When It Snows

“Phew. What a relief since I can’t live without you either.”

His eyes widen. “What?”

“I love you, Weston.”

“I thought I’d have to convince you to give me a chance. I had a whole speech prepared.”

I giggle. “You prepared a speech? Let’s hear it.”

“Smartass.”

“I know I am, but what are you?”

He draws me near until I’m cuddled into his arms. This is where I want to be every day of my life from now on.

“I know you don’t want to live on the island, but we’ll figure something out. We’ll make it work.”

I love how he’s willing to compromise. I never expected Weston to compromise on anything. It’s a good start. The perfect start.

I glance up at him. “Actually, I would love to live on the island again.”

“Really?” I nod. “Good. And you don’t need to worry about your family not supporting you. My family will support you. I promise.”

I smile. “I can’t wait to meet them.”

“Good since Mom wants you to come to dinner tomorrow.”

“But I spoke to my family. We talked. We cleared the air. Things are changing.”

He grins. “Good. You deserve for your family to understand how wonderful you are.”

Bang! Bang! Bang!

“Your time is up!” Thomas hollers.

I sigh. “The joys of having siblings.”

“I’ve only got one sister. I don’t know how you handle two sisters and two brothers.”

“It’s my cross to bear.”

He kisses my hair before releasing me. “Let’s go. I want to get to know your family.”

“You really must love me if you want to get to know them.”

“We’re awesome, sis!” Sadie shouts.

I wrench open the door to find all four of my siblings waiting in the hallway. I glare at Thomas. “I thought you got rid of the eavesdroppers.”

“Sorry, sis. I wasn’t letting you stay in a room alone with a man we don’t know.”

“Good brother,” Weston says.

I elbow him. “Quick lesson. You are on my side. Always. No matter what.”

He chuckles. “Whatever you say, precious. Whatever you say.”

“I like him,” Mom says from where she’s standing at the mouth of the hallway. Next to her, Dad grunts. It’s as close as he’ll come to admitting he approves. I’ll take it.

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