Page 100 of Until You

Or because she was hiding something else?

No. That was his past leaching in, trying to undermine what he had with her. She’d hit the nail on the head when she called out his insecurities. Temporary or not, he didn’t want what he had with her marred by them.

He felt better when the movie ended and they walked outside into the cool evening. “Do you have a preference where we go for dinner?”

She didn’t answer; instead she searched his face. “Are you okay?”

“Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Before the movie…”

“I was an idiot. If you hang around me long enough, you’ll see more of it. I’m sorry.”

Shaking her head, she wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him.

He involuntarily slipped his arms around her back and pulled her close, realizing she felt right. Like there’d been a huge hole and she filled it perfectly. But what did he do with that realization? Especially when he only had three weeks left with her?

But what if she accepted the VP position and stayed in Kansas City? He was surprised how excited he was at the prospect.

“Now, about dinner?” he asked.

She stretched up and kissed his cheek. “I’m open to anything.” The innuendo was blatant.

He sucked in a breath to dampen his rising libido.

But Lanie had other ideas, brushing her lips against his and biting his lower lip.

“Maybe we should get takeout,” he grunted.

She laughed and ran her hands over his chest, moving downward to his waistline. “I knew you were brilliant.”

The buzzing in his pocket broke the silence.

“Aren’t you going to get that?” she asked.

“It can wait.” But something in the back of his head said it couldn’t. He pulled out the mobile, surprised to see his brother’s name on the screen.

“Eric?” he asked as soon as he answered. “Can I call you back later?”

“Tyler, I need your help.”

Adrenaline raced through him. “What’s wrong?”

“I’m with these guys, and we’ve been drinking, and now they’re about to drive. I need a ride home.”

Tyler glanced over to an alarmed-looking Lanie. “There’s no one else to get you?”

“I knew I shouldn’t have called you! Fuck you!” Eric shouted and his words sounded slurred.

“Eric. Wait. Don’t hang up. It’s just that I’m at the Plaza. It’s going to take me a good twenty-five minutes to get there. If you’re in danger and someone’s closer—”

“I’m not in danger,” he said, sounding calmer. “I’m just about to get stranded.”

“Then text me your address. I’m on my way.”

“Tyler…thanks.”

“You did good calling me, kid. I’ll be right there.”

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