He presses his lips against mine. I grip the nape of his neck and pull him in for more. He starts to break away butmust change his mind because he relaxes into a sensual kiss. It’s the second kiss we’ve shared since I’ve been here.
I’m sure part of him doesn’t trust me to keep his heart safe and I don’t hold that against him. This time is different, though.
Jami will always be somewhere in my heart with the lost idea of sharing a love with him, but the betrayal I feel around him keeping something so important to himself for all this time isn’t something I can get over.
The universe keeps sending me signs we don’t work, so I’m going to trust it this time. Hunter’s been doing so much work on himself and it’s clear it’s all for me. How could I look away from that?
My feelings have only grown because of it. I’m ready to give him a chance to fill my heart completely and every day he gets closer. Today is no different.
Our lips part from one another and I gaze into his eyes. “Thank you for making my heart grow. Your generosity is something I’ll always be thankful for.”
“Thank you for opening yourself up to me. Having you here has made me happier than ever. I plan on trying to put a smile on your face as long as you’ll let me.” He taps the tip of my nose. “We better go so we can get there on time.”
“I’m ready if you are.”
We leave his place with three security guards trailing us. I want to ask why, but I already know. They’re with us to keep Jami away.
I’m grateful Hunter has honored my wishes about seeing Jami. I’ll do that when I feel ready.
My therapist and I have talked about it at length. She said I have a right to know how I feel and what I want to say before I speak to Jami.
That’s what I want. I’ll take all responsibility if, for whatever reason, Jami gives me an excuse I would consider valid. But I can’t think of one.
We get to the tarmac to board the private jet, and I’m awestruck. The plane is the size of a commercial jet. Hunter explains he offered to pay a business acquaintance to use it for our trip and the guy agreed. I can honestly say it’s the best Christmas present I’ve ever received.
Hunter and I get on first. It’s like a mansion in a plane. Melanie and Jonah get on next.
Her eyes are as wide as can be. “No way do things like this exist.”
“Well, you’re not dreaming, baby girl. That means they do.” Jonah kisses her on the cheek. “There are rooms for all of us to sleep, so go pick one out. You get first dibs.”
She glances at me. “What about Dori? She might want to pick first.”
“Nope. It’s your turn. I’m happy wherever I sleep.” I gesture to the staircase to the second level. “Hunter said the rooms are upstairs, so lead the way.”
“Thank you, Jonah. Thanks, Dori and Hunter. You guys are spoiling me, and I love it.” She squeals. “Oh my god. I’m going to cry tears of joy. Dori, let’s go check out this dream jet.”
With a yank on my hand, she leads me up the stairs, following another flight attendant. Jonah and Hunter laugh and wait behind for the flight attendant to take them to the business area.
They’re planning on working for the first half of the flight, giving Melanie and me enough time to scream like little girls at the luxury and extravagance.
After we pick out our rooms, we find an entertainment area to relax in. Not much later, we’re on our way to Paris with a glass of champagne and spa services set up for later.
Yes, I said spa services. This jet has an onboard massage team. It’s out of the world and over the top.
“Dori, this trip will ruin me. I’ll never want to goanywhere again because nothing can beat it.” She messes with the TV remote. “What movie should we watch?”
“It’s up to you. This trip is all about you, so enjoy taking the reins. I’m just along for the ride.”
She scrolls through the options but turns it off when she can’t find a Paris-themed movie. “I guess that means we’re meant to spend some time catching up.”
“Mel, we’ve spent most of our time together over the past two weeks. What on earth do we need to catch up on?”
She situates herself so she’s facing me. “Lots. Tell me where you are with the whole Hunter situation.”
“There’s not much to tell. You’ve been around us, so you already know.” I rest my head against the back of the couch.
“You didn’t hook up with him after Jonah and I went to bed last night?”