Page 91 of Headed for Home

“Are you staying for dinner, Pinkie Pie?”

He smiles. “It’s my treat.”

Charlie gasps. “Like cupcakes?”

“Ah, not quite.” My boyfriend looks at me, desperation pinching his brow. Such a softie.

“Maybe after supper,” I concede.

The twins whoop, cinching us together in an unbreakable embrace. Drake’s gaze collides with mine. Waves crash, spilling between our stares. There’s a tugging sensation like we’re drowning in each other. We fight the tide to deliver us ashore. Together.

Paisley glances at us, huddled in a quad formation. Her posture deflates. “Ah, crap, I better make myself scarce too.”

“How convenient. I’ll walk you out.” Scott gestures to the entryway.

“Have fun,” I croon. “Thanks for the delivery and extra help today.”

“Our pleasure.” His eyebrows wiggle at my cousin. “After you, blondie.”

Her skeptical awareness skewers him. “Don’t get any ideas. This doesn’t mean anything, Scottie.”

“Yeah, yeah. Benson would unalive me if I actually tried anything.”

Her sharp cackle echoes down the hall. “He couldn’t care less.”

“That’s what you think,” Scott drawls.

The front door closes, shutting out the rest of their conversation before we can say goodbye. Charlie and Kenzie struggle to free themselves of our pretzel. Their feet skid on the floor as they race from the room. Chester and Cheeto appear from who knows where to chase after them.

“Don’t go too far. We’re going to eat soon,” I call after them.

They send me a backward wave. “M’kay!”

Drake slides a palm into my back pocket, giving me a firm squeeze. “What’s on the menu, mama?”

My chin rests on his sternum while I flutter my lashes up at him. “I thought you were buying?”

“Should we go to my place and see what cobwebs are available in the fridge?”

I falter. “You’re inviting us to your house?”

“Why do you sound so surprised? It’s not the first time.”

“Just might be,” I reply.

“You’re not missing much. Been thinking about putting it on the market.”

My heart stutters. “Are you moving?”

His fingers dig into my ass, pulling me flush against him. “Once you’re ready for that.”

“Wait.” Static crackles in my ears. “You want to move in together?”

“It’s the next logical step. I’m over here constantly as it is. My bed is the only thing I use.”

“You’d just pack up and leave your home behind?”

“That bachelor pad isn’t much of a home. Lacks personality. Too quiet. No history. But this place?” Drake motions to the personal knickknacks and decorations I’ve purposely arranged. “Love grows here. There are memories embedded in the walls. Deep roots. Positive energy. Welcoming atmosphere. Greener Pastures is where you find comfort after a hard day. Where you raise a family. Build a life. Stay put.”

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