Page 32 of Wild Hearts

“And what has she done recently that makes you mad?”

“How about not warning me they were about to impose on you?”

“It wasn’t an imposition. They are always welcome in my home. Even if it’s unannounced.”

“True,” Mick sighs.

“See? It will all work out.”

The song ends, but Mick and I keep dancing. I lay my head on his chest and live in the moment.

God, I don’t think I could want anyone else the way I want him.

“You ready to go, baby girl?” Mick murmurs in my ear.

His beard tickling my neck, making me shiver.

“Yeah, let’s go tell Josh and make sure he’s willing to give Autumn a ride home.”

Mick rests his hand on the small of my back, guiding me to the table.

“Hey, we’re going to head out,” he tells Josh and Jake.

“Sounds good, I’ll make sure Autumn gets home,” Josh offers.

“I’d appreciate it,” Mick tells him.

“You guys have a good night, don’t do anything I wouldn’t do,” I tease. They wave me off and I turn toward Mick. “Meet you at the door? I’m going to go tell Kaylee and Autumn we’re heading out.”

Mick nods. “Okay baby girl.” He leans down and gives me a kiss. “Meet you in a minute.”

I walk over to Autumn and rest my hand on her shoulder while waving down Kaylee with the other. Kaylee looks at me and holds up one finger. I turn and look at Autumn.

She’s looking at her phone, frowning. “What’s going on?”

She shakes her head. “I just miss Jackson. We’ve been on opposite schedules lately.”

My heart aches for her. “I’m sorry, Autumn. That must be hard. I’m always here if you need to talk about anything.”

She gives me a small smile. “I know. It’s not forever. I’ll see him in a couple of days. I should be the one offering you a shoulder. When Mick leaves, he’ll be gone for six months. That’ll be even worse.”

I frown. “I hadn’t really thought about that. I guess it will.”

I hate thinking about him leaving, but I know I need to sooner rather than later.

“Sorry. I totally ruined the vibe tonight. Don’t worry about me. Go home with my brother and enjoy your time together.”

“Thanks. I will. I’ll see you later.” I lean in and hug her.

“Later, girlie.” Kaylee waves over her shoulder, heading down the bar to another customer.

I walk to Mick, who’s leaning against the wall next to the door.

“Everything okay?” he asks.

“Everything’s perfect.”

I decide then that these next two weeks are going to be the best two weeks of our lives. Then I will throw myself into work until he comes home.

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