Page 101 of The Enemy Face Off

Dude, chill. Get out of your own head and enjoy the moment.

I pretend to yawn, using it as an excuse to place my arm around her shoulder.

"Smooth," she says, not taking her eyes off the fireworks. She scoots in a little closer and leans against me.

The fireworks in the sky? Yeah, they've got nothing on what's happening inside my chest.

Once the display is over, we head back home, strolling through the streets hand in hand.

"When do I get my end-of-date score?" I ask as we turn onto our street.

"When I get my end-of-date kiss," she replies.

"That a challenge, is it?"

One of her eyebrows shoots up. "Maybe."

I chuckle. "In that case, challenge accepted."

We reach her house, and she turns to me. "Before we restart our usual tit for tat, I just want to say something. Something serious."

"Will I need protective gear?"

A small grin. "No. I…" She looks away, then up at the sky, before returning her eyes to meet mine. "I've had a really goodnight, Milo. Hands down, this has been the best date I've ever been on. You make me feel…special. And safe. And I'm not used to either of those things."

"You are special, Beth." I gently graze her cheek. "And safe with me. Always. I won't ever intentionally do anything to hurt you or betray you. I'll never lie to you. And I'll take all the ribbing you direct at me. I swear."

"Stop being so charming."

"Can't help it." I grin, lifting my chin. "I've sought medical advice, but unfortunately, it looks like I'll have to live with this condition permanently."

She swats my chest, and I take the opportunity to latch onto her wrist. I raise her hand to my lips and softly kiss her knuckles one at a time.

I don't want Beth to have to settle for having some fictional book boyfriend, I want her to have the real thing. And in my one humble opinion, I believe I'm the best man for the job.

I'll always treat her right and respect her.

She can lead the way, and I'll follow.

I'm going to give her every reason to trust me, and maybe one day, when I tell her how beautiful she is, she'll believe me without any doubt or hesitation.

Unable to help myself, I ask, "So, does this mean you like me more than that Maverick Pebblerock or whatever his name is, guy?"

A soft smile lifts the corners of her mouth. "That depends."

"On?"

"On how you finish this date, mister. I'm still waiting for that kiss."

As soon as she's done talking, I lean down, curl my fingers around her neck, and put all the feelings I have for her into what I'm hoping will be the most unforgettable, magical end-of-first-date kiss she's ever had. Judging by the soft whimpers spilling out of her mouth, I'd say I'm in with a shot.

"So," I rasp, my lips hovering over hers. "How'd I do?"

"Maverick who?"

I grin. "'Atta girl."

19

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