Page 19 of Headed for Home

“Again? Did you have to take the edge off before our date? I’m flattered that I get you so hot and bothered.”

Her freckled cheeks turn crimson. “Such trouble.”

“Later, beauty. You’ll come until your clit is numb. But be patient,” I chide. “This is for you.”

Cassidy studies the wrapped mason jar I’d been holding and now nudge toward her. “I was beginning to wonder.”

“Just don’t tip it upside down,” I warn.

“That’s a big hint.” She begins to open the paper folded neatly at the top.

Once the contents are revealed, I watch the memory splash across her expression. Seventh grade was seventeen years ago but the past floods back to me in a vibrant wave. She opened her locker on the Monday after our first kiss to find a single sunflower and a note.To brighten your day like you’ve brightened mine.

Her eyes lift to mine. “You remembered.”

“How could I forget?” I’d said something similar when we reconnected last week.

She pets one of the yellow petals. “We were just kids.”

“Doesn’t make your impact on me less significant. I knew you were special. Even back when I was a clueless teenager fueled by hormones and Mountain Dew.”

Cassidy is quiet for a moment, capturing me in her unwavering stare. “Who are you?”

I chuckle. “Is that a trick question?”

Her smile rivals mine. “You’re not what I expected, Drake.”

That could become our tagline. “How so?”

“I’m not sure how to describe it other than pleasantly unexpected.”

“Great description.” My laugh booms louder.

“Can you blame me for being flustered? You’ve caught me off guard. Again. This”—she points at the champagne and flowers before gesturing to me as a whole—“is very extraordinary. Above and beyond romantic. I kind of assumed we’d have a drink and call it a night. But now…”

“You want to see what happens,” I guess.

“I do.”

My stomach flips to catch the gallop in my pulse. “A toast then.”

A glance at the label proves this brut is worthy of the occasion. I unwrap the foil and pop the cork with expert efficiency. My friends erupt in applause for our benefit. Cassidy’s attention whips in their direction. Recognition flits across her expression when she notices Harper standing behind the bar. The others earn a wave in greeting.

“Your co-owners?” she asks once her focus is on me again.

“Garrett and Ridge. You’ll get a proper introduction soon,” I promise.

Once the flutes are filled to the brim, she raises one along with a questioning eyebrow. I lift mine to clink against hers.

“To us and our anniversary.”

“Ah, yes. The cause for celebration.” Yet she sounds unsure.

I sip the champagne but don’t take my eyes off her. “It’s been a week since we bumped into each other at Bean Me Up. We’ve accomplished so much in such a short amount of time.”

“You’re ridiculous,” she laughs.

“Nah, I’m just dick-ulous. For you.” I smirk, flashing her my dimples.

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