Page 93 of Thanks for the Memories
When we go the kitchen, he sets the box down on the counter and engulfs me into a firm hug, kissing me properly. Being in his arms feels so perfect.
“Let’s go outside,” I say, taking his hand in mine.
I lead him to the same lounge chair where we had our last encounter and sit down next to him. The weather isn’t ideal, but I barely notice the gray clouds. As far as I’m concerned, the sun is shining brightly.
“Why does this feel like you’re about to make some big announcement?” he jokes.
I’m probably being more dramatic than I need to be, but I want to do this the right way.
“I just wanted to talk to you.”
He pushes a few strands of hair out of my face, brushing my cheek with his fingertip.
“I had such a great time last night,” I tell him.
“So did I. That’s why I texted you first thing this morning. I was already missing you.”
I feel my cheeks get warm.
“I want you to know that when I’m with you I feel happy and alive, and I can’t wait to see where this goes—I’m all yours.”
Without a word he pulls me into his lap and kisses me.
“Blondie, I’ve wanted that since the first day you showed up at the office.”
“I don’t know what the future holds,” I say.
“None of us do, but isn’t that what makes life so thrilling? We get to continue this journey together, and I’m ready,” he says confidently.
My heart feels like it might burst out of my chest.
“So, we’re doing this?” I ask.
“Hell yes, we are,” he declares, kissing me again.
“Okay, so what now?”
He taps his cheek with his finger. “I think we should start with donuts.”
I burst out laughing. “That sounds about right.”
He stands up, lifts me off the ground, and spins me around. “I’m ready to make new memories with you, Blondie.”
I put my hands on his face. “I can’t wait.”
* * *
“Friendship to love—it’s straight out of a movie,” Gabby shouts. We’re sitting on the sectional couch in our living room, and I just finished telling them all about my date with Jeremy and then seeing him again today. I haven’t been able to stop smiling since Jeremy left. In between kisses we talked about work and how we want to handle our relationship moving forward. Things have certainly changed since the last time I was in the office. We’re going into the office early tomorrow to talk to Carl. We both like our boss too much not to be up front with him.
“I’m really happy for you,” Lila says. “You tackled a tricky situation with so much maturity. I would’ve probably bounced back and forth between both men. Oh wait, I’ve done that.”
We all laugh.
“Now I can’t wait to see how you two juggle work and your relationship,” Lila continues.
I sigh. “Yeah, it’ll be interesting. Jeremy actually said he’d quit if he had to.”
She raises her eyebrows. “Oh, he’s definitely hooked.”
