Page 18 of Christmas with Hope

“We can figure that out. For right now, just know that I see you as more than just sex. Okay?”

There was so much I wanted to ask about hismore than just sexstatement. Part of me wanted to just ask. However, it was outweighed by my shyness.

“Okay?” he asked, kissing the top of my head.

“Okay,” I whispered, snuggling closer against him.

We laid in silence with him brushing his fingers gently down my arm. Each time, I trembled at his touch and melted. Not because it was a sexual touch but because it wasn’t. It was a touch that made me feel special, cared for, and much more.

There was something incredible about Colton. When the week was all over, I hoped I’d have Stefanie to thank and not walk away heartbroken by a man I barely knew.

“What are you thinking about, Hope?” Colton asked, pulling me away from my thoughts.

“Just wondering who you are,” I whispered.

“Colton Preston,” he joked, making me roll my eyes and laugh. “You mean as far as my past and present?”

“Yes. What makes you...you?”

“Well, let’s see. Where should I begin?” he chuckled.

“From the beginning.” I laid my head on his chest.

Hours went by with us, in the dark, talking. I learned about his childhood, his love for aviation, and his dislike for asparagus. He learned about my childhood and passion for helping those less fortunate. It was nice talking with him, but even better being held by him as we talked.

When my eyes got too heavy to stay awake any longer, I kissed Colton softly.

“Goodnight, Mr. Preston,” I whispered.

“Goodnight, Ms. Dawson,” he replied before hugging me tightly and kissing my forehead. “Tomorrow is a new day.”

“That it is.”

The thought of us spending tomorrow together had me drifting to sleep with a smile on my face.

Chapter Nine

Something soft touching my forehead woke me from my sleep. I opened my eyes to find Colton standing next to the bed looking down at me. He was fully dressed.

“Morning,” I said, sitting up and pulling the covers up to my neck.

“Morning,Sleeping Beauty,” he smiled. “I was going to let you sleep, but I was afraid breakfast would get cold and there isn’t a microwave here.”

“Breakfast?” I asked, inhaling sharply. The smell of bacon filled my nose.

How the hell had I slept through the smell of bacon? My body needed to be fired for not waking up to bacon.

“Mmhmm. Are you hungry?” As though it was planned, my stomach grumbled in reply.

“Sorry,” I sighed in embarrassment.

“Why are you apologizing?” he shook his head. “If you are hungry, get freshened up and meet me in the kitchen. Sound good?”

“Sounds great. Thanks.”

Colton smiled, gave me a soft kiss, and then left the room.

“Wow,” I blushed and threw my hands in the air in a celebration.

---