Page 108 of Recon Rendezvous

“You’re not only the epitome of strength and perseverance. But you fought your way back home, ready to set down roots, how could I not want to strengthen your foundation and bring the love we all have for you together? This is where you belong. You deserve to be loved by the people who know and supportyou the most, and I couldn’t think of anyone better than our parents.”

My heart swells, and I swear it grows two sizes as I pull him down to me, tasting honesty and pure love as sweet as honey on his lips.

Allowing only a whisper between us, I murmur against his lips, “Thank you.”

Today has been perfect, I almost don’t want to leave. Xander being his usual charming self, had us all in stitches, and I'm sure my dad will never recover from this hangover. Xander plied him and John with so much whiskey they can barely see straight. I even think he promised to drop off at least five cases of the stuff when my dad couldn’t stop talking about how much he loved it.

My gaze gravitates to Xander, my smile widening as I watch him interact with everyone. We’re just hanging on the couch, a movie forgotten on the flatscreen, just enjoying everyone’s company. Everything is so comfortable and natural—nothing like the strained attempts to connect with my family when I was with my ex. He always questioned when we were leaving, or even negotiated how long he would have to stay. We never did this, now that I think about it. It was me spending time with my family and him on his phone or in another room until it was time to go. He never took the time to truly get to know them or even consider what I needed when it came to family time.

I snuggle deeper into his side, feeling too warm and cozy to move. “You feel too good right now for me to move,” I whisper, half asleep.

He groans softly, pulling me even closer until I’m practically in his lap, before murmuring in my ear, “Don't start this soft and sexy shit in front of your parents. We don't want them to know how much of a slut you are for me and all the dirty things you beg me to do to you.”

We certainly do not. My face heats and I laugh turning my face into his neck, before glancing up to catch our parents watching us, and I can’t help resting my head on his chest and offering them a genuine smile. Being here with Xander is as easy as breathing, I don't even have to think about it.

A soft kiss to my crown pulls me from my thoughts and I turn to look up at him again. “I'm ready when you are,” I say softly. Hopefully conveying, I’m okay with leaving the warmth of our families, but that I’m also ready for it all. Everything that comes next.

“Those words are music to my ears, babycakes.”

The possessive glint in his eyes tells me he got my message loud and clear.

“Come with me, I have another surprise for you.”

We stand in unison, united, Xander’s large hand warm and secure around mine.

“We have to get going. Apparently, there's another surprise waiting for me,” I say with a broad grin.

“Gerald, Edna, thank you so much for allowing me and my family into your home to break bread. We appreciate your hospitality.”

“Nonsense,” Mom says. “You keep treating her like you did today and you're always welcome. All of you.” She turns to Marilyn and John before I can respond.

“Oh god,” I groan, turning my face into Xander’s shoulder.

“Well, I guess I'll be seeing a lot of you then.”

After another round of hugs and promises to visit Xander’s family in Colorado soon, we leave them laughing in the family room. And just as we’re about to close the door, Mom yells, “Look at him. What am I going to do with him for the rest of the day?” They all howl with laughter and it warms my heart that our families were able to come together so easily.

Quietly, he helps me into the truck and ensures I’m secure in my seat belt before he climbs in beside me.

“Are you ready?” he asks softly, giving my thigh a squeeze.

Somehow, every word carries a weight that deepens the significance of this moment. But I don’t need to think twice. Am I ready for all that he’s offering?

Cupping his face, I gaze into his eyes.

“Yes.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

LONDON

We drive. To where, I don’t know. But as we dance and sing along to every song, with his warm hand on my thigh and those dark eyes alight with devilry, there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.

Pulling onto an oddly familiar dirt road, I sit up, taking in the lush green grass and tall trees that block out the sunlight. But instead of veering right to return to the magical spot where we had our night under the stars, Xan continues down the road.

We ride in silence for another few minutes before he comes to a stop and my eyes dart around to the nothingness surrounding us. I turn to him, brows quirked in question.

But he’s ready, a silky black blindfold in hand. “Turn around and close those pretty eyes.” His deep voice caresses each word as they leave his lips.

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