Page 43 of Summer with a Single Dad

“Then let’s just take it a day at a time. Baby steps, Emily. Practice is your forte, right? You’re the one who taught me that you have to practice, follow through, and repeat until the dog gets it right.”

“You’re not a dog, Chris.”

“Well, not a hundred percent. But we have done doggie?—”

Her cheeks flashed red as she stopped my words with a playful smack. “Hudson is right there,” she chastised.

“He’s oblivious, babe.” I tugged on her hand so she’d look at me. “See? Right there? You care about him.”

“I do. From the moment you showed me his picture in your wallet . . . He’s a very special boy.”

“Give it time. There’s no rush.” I kissed the top of her hand. “But you need to know that no one makes me feel the way you do. I never thought I’d meet someone and click the way we do. You are very special to me, Emily, and I think I’m falling in love with you.”

Her eyes were as big as saucers. “You are?”

I shook my head. “Fuck it. No. I am in love with you. I am. I love you, Emily. And I want you in my life. And in Hudson’s.”

Her eyes filled with tears before she choked back a sob. “I love you, too.”

Hearing her say those words filled me with the immense kind of joy I’d only felt a handful of times in my life. Unable to contain myself, our mouths crashed together. This kiss would be forever seared into my memory.

Chapter Seventeen

Emily

Only a few days had passed since Chris and I exchangedI love yous.

My smile hadn’t lessened.

The happiness hadn’t subsided.

I was still floating on a cloud.

Three little words, and my world was forever changed.

My phone chimed, indicating a text from Chris. Since that wonderful day at the farmer’s market, he now had his very own special ringtone.

Chris

Not going to make it to the park for social hour.

Me

We’ll miss you.

Chris

H and I can meet you afterward. Dinner?

Me

Okay.

Chris

Can’t wait to see you.

I was calculating the number of hours I’d have to wait to see them when another text popped up.

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