Page 102 of Steps

Gosh, I feel so happy with him.

When we get hungry again, Varen buys us deliciousScottish meat pastries, and we resume our stroll through the captivatingPrinces Street Gardens, enjoying the incredible scenery while eating.

Coming to a stop at the Ross Fountain, he holds myhand while we admire the magical cast-iron edifice.

I release a long sigh. “This place is so amazing.Never imagined ever traveling out of the country. I’m glad I’m here with you.”

He drapes his arm around my waist and eases mecloser. “We could stay here. Just run away and live in the countryside. No onejudging our relationship.”

Swallowing hard, I lift my hand and press it tohis chest, feeling the strong beats of his heart. “We could.”

He laughs. “I’m kidding, Toya. I wouldn’t do thatto you. I know you have a lot you want to accomplish.”

“It doesn’t sound like a bad idea, though.” Isquint at him while wearing a mischievous expression.

Varen shakes his head in wonder. He leans in andkisses me softly. I don’t mind being this way in public, it’s our parents’ eyesthat bother me.

When the kiss slows to an end, he strokes my cheekwhile drinking me in with utter adoration. “I can’t believe such a sweet girlis mine.”

“Hmm. Me neither,” I joke. “It’s definitely thecastle. That’s how you fully won me over that night in the park.”

His brows shoot up. “Wow, is that right?”

“Yeah, I mean,” I pause as laughter trickles out,“it’s the only thing you got going for you.”

“You…” Varen starts to tickle me mercilessly.Uncontrollable laughter spurts from my belly. Passersby stare and chuckle atour cuteness.

“Okay okay.” I raise my hands in surrender and tryto contain my laugh. “It’s your personality, and how good you treat me.” Hetows me into his arms again. “Although the castle is an added bonus.”

“Hey.” He flashes me a playful warning, resultingin more chuckles.

“You’re even cooler when you let your guard down,”I tell him, locking my hands around his neck.

Varen snorts. “Only for you, baby.” He sways withme. “You know, your laugh gets me every time. How come you never laugh likethat for anyone else?”

I moisten my lips. “Because… no one else makes mefeel this way, Varen Kirby.”This is it. I should tell him now. Regardlessif he didn’t say it first. “Um…”

Sadly, I lose courage as I notice groups of peoplemoving in the same direction. “What’s going on?”

He shrugs. “Probably a tour. This is a hugetourist destination.” He gestures for us to sit on a now vacant bench nearby.

“So, do you start work as soon as you get back?” Iask, crossing one leg over the other.

“Yeah. Dad’s friend was nice enough to give me thetime for the wedding.”

“Cool.”

Varen traces my knuckles with his thumb whilestaring off into space.

“What’s on your mind?” I ask, jerking his arm.

Turning to me, he says simply, “Just waiting forit.”

I pinch my brows together. “Waiting for what?”

A loud bang ricochets through the air, startlingthe crap out of me.

“Fuck!” My eyes blare. I grip his arm hard andveer around the garden. Cheers resound, signaling everything’s fine. “Varen,what…” My voice trails as he bursts out with laughter. I smack his leg.

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