Page 27 of When Love And Destiny Collide

"I told you," she says, pulling away. "As soon as the space is painted, I'll move everything."

"Need I remind you that you're injured?" I reply, glancing down at her leg. "You won't be able to stand on a ladder until you're completely healed."

She looks at me, her expression thoughtful but still resistant to conceding my point.

"What do you want me to say?" she asks, her beautiful eyes pleading for understanding.

"Let me help you." My voice is hopeful.

I watch her struggle to maneuver on crutches to the side of the couch that’s still empty, her face etched with pain.

"I would offer you a seat," she laughs nervously, "but as you can see, space is a bit of a luxury around here right now."

I fold my arms and lean against the door, letting my gaze linger on the exquisite beauty of her face—the delicate dimple on her cheek and the striking blue of her eyes. As I study her, I can almost feel the weight of her fears, the depth of her hopes, and the fragility of her dreams tied to this new venture. At this moment, she looks so young and achingly vulnerable; all I want is to protect her from the world.

"I'd like to stay here tonight," she says softly, her eyes meeting mine. "I think I'll rest better in my own bed."

Wanting nothing more than to make her happy, I nod. "Okay, but I'll come by in the morning to help you return to the house."

"Do you want me to go with you to pick up Davey?"

"It's been a long day," I reply gently. "Why don't you relax and take it easy for the rest of the night?"

Relief floods her eyes, and she whispers, "Thank you."

I know I have to say good night, but the thought of leaving her feels unbearable. All I want is to hold her close, to keep her safe in my arms, and never let go.

"Okay, well, I guess I better go," I say, hesitating. "But if you need anything—anything at all—call me, no matter what time."

She offers a weak smile. "Okay."

"You promise?" I press, not wanting to leave without her reassurance.

"I promise," she whispers, her eyes holding mine a moment longer.

When she stands abruptly, I’m at her side instantly, gently holding her by the elbow.

"You don't have to get up," I say softly. "Lily, I don't want to leave you."

"I'll be fine," she replies, but her words do little to ease my worry.

Her nearness tugs at my heartstrings, her blue gaze so sweet and innocent it nearly breaks me. The scent of white lilies lingering in the air has been teasing my senses all day, intensifying the pull I feel toward her.

"Lily," I whisper, her name tasting like honey on my lips. I reach for her, gently tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear, my fingers lingering as they find the crook of her neck. Her skin is soft and warm beneath my touch, igniting a powerful desire to kiss her that courses through me like wildfire.

"Yes," she murmurs as if reading my mind. "You can kiss me goodnight."

I lean down, my heart racing, and gently brush her lips with mine. The soft contact sends a spark of electricity coursing through me.

I open my eyes to find hers still closed. Unable to resist, I kiss her again, a featherlight touch that only deepens the yearning inside me.

When I pull away, she opens her eyes, revealing a blue as bright as the clearest summer sky. God, she's beautiful.

"Kiss me again, Noah. Kiss me like you mean it," she breathes, her voice a sweet whisper that stirs something within me.

I smile, recognizing the invitation from moments past. It’s a call that ignites a profound longing in me—a desperate need to show her just how much I truly mean it.

I kiss her with deliberate and unhurried intensity, savoring every moment. My lips move slowly, lazily, exploring hers with a thoroughness that brings our bodies closer until they meld together. I can feel the rhythm of her heartbeat syncing with mine, as if our hearts are beating as one. When I finally end the kiss, she sways slightly, her footing unsteady. She has surrendered herself entirely to my embrace, her entire being melting into the warmth and security of my arms.

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