Page 80 of More Than Falling in Love

I tap out a message, letting Mason know I’ll call in a second.

Kent shifts so that his back is against the headboard, then taps the bed next to him.“First of all, yes.We’re doing this.I’m all in, no matter whatthislooks like.But maybe we should keep the kissing part low-key until we’ve talked through details.I don’t want Mason to assume that—”

“I’m moving to Stadtburg.There’s an apartment waiting for me.The truck already left with my stuff.”

Tears brim in Kent’s eyes, and I scoot closer to him.

“Please, please, please tell me those are happy tears.”

He nods, wiping his eyes.“You’re moving?To be with me?”

“I was going to tell you at the hospital.”I lean my head on his shoulder.“You know that I love this city.And my job.But after a magical kiss and a bit of soul-searching, I decided that I love you more.And I still have my job.I’ll just be working remote.”

“I’ve lived a long time afraid that people will leave.But you are doing the opposite.”Kent’s lips are on mine again, and the call is delayed a bit longer.When he pulls back, he nods at the phone.“I’m ready when you are.”

“I’m not going to tell him about the move until I fly home.Untilwefly home.”

He taps his lips.“Unlike my kid, Icankeep a secret.”

Kent leans away as the video chat connects, and I smile at the camera.

Mason answers right away.“Finally.Dad isn’t here so he’ll have to catch up.”

“I have a surprise for you, Mason.”This one is small compared to what’s coming, but I relish the look of anticipation on his face.

In the background, Dad and Ava clasp hands, hope etched in their features.

Kent leans in so that he’s in view.“Hey, bud.”

Mason jumps off the couch and dances in a circle, the phone bouncing as he does.When he stops, he pulls the phone close to his face.“But the next time, I want to go to New York too.”

Kent laughs.

“I will show you the city, take you to a baseball game, and we’ll have all kinds of fun.”I swallow the lump in my throat.“I love you, kiddo.”

Mason’s head bobs up and down.“And my dad too, right?”

I’m not sure where this little guy learned how to read people so well, but he’s been right a lot of the time.

Kent laces his fingers in mine.

I rest my head on his shoulder.“And your dad too.Very much.”

Dad hands Ava a tissue, and I’m about to boo-hoo when I’m supposed to be listening to Mason read.

“Everybody ready?Page one.”Mason starts reading, and I snuggle into my teddy bear of a man.

I really do need one of these in my life.But not just any teddy bear.I want Kent.

“When are you flying home?”I add sugar to my coffee, then stir in milk.

He sips his black coffee, then glances toward the kitchen.“Haven’t purchased a ticket yet.”

“I know you don’t like being away from Mason, but I’m flying out on Monday.We could fly together.And then today and tomorrow, I can show you New York.”

He leans back as the waiter approaches with our food.“Sounds like a plan.”

“I was going to get economy seats if you don’t mind.After chartering a plane to rush to Texas when I knew you were sick and you seemed kind of stubborn about going to a doctor, I’m trying to curb big expenditures.”

---