Page 109 of Finally Forever
“I thought we were renting it.”
“I bought it as an engagement present. I just never got to tell you.”
I light up inside and throw my arms around his neck. “Thank you. I love it. I can’t believe we own it. And my clothes are all there.”
“I can send for them.”
“How?”
“I’ll have to hire someone. Xavier knows everyone. I’m sure he can help. In the meantime, we’re in Paris. If you want new clothes, we’ll buy them. I’m sure your friend, Lowell, would love that. And you. A shopping day together?”
I settle close, leaning against him. “He would love it and so would I.”
“Then we have today and maybe tomorrow planned.”
“You know what else we could do?”
He tugs me closer so we’re chest-to-chest.
“Stroll through the park. Eat anywhere we want. Walk along the river without disguises.”
“Plan our wedding.” He kisses my lips gently.
His phone buzzes. He lies back, taking me with him, and grabs it from where he left it on the bed before.
“Hello?” he says, still not letting me go.
“Yes. I told her.” A pause. “We’re good.”
Xavier?I mouth.
He nods. “I will. I do, but later.” Another pause. “I agree.” He ends the call.
I raise an expectant brow.
“He wanted to know if I told you and how we are. He also wanted to know our plans and if we’d need him. You heard what I said.”
I lean away.
“Where do you think you’re going?” He holds onto me.
“I have to pee, and then I need food. I’m starving. This baby is doing weird things to my body.”
He laughs and lets me go. It’s been so long since he’s smiled this much or been so happy. I can’t imagine what our lives will be like now, but I’m certain the journey will be amazing.
36
Sebastian
I sit across from Lowell, Ainsley beside him, at the café table of a French bistro. The weather couldn’t be more perfect, cool and crisp, with spring flowers in bloom on the trees.
Paris is a beautiful city. I don’t know if I want to live here and raise our child in the city, though. I’m not ready to have any conversation that could disappoint Ainsley, either, so the topic will have to wait.
She laughs at something Lowell says. He makes her laugh a lot. The guy is nice, and his personality fits Ainsley well. He’s not threatening or overbearing like her other college bestie had been. Harper took advantage of Ainsley’s loyalty and good nature. Lowell matches those traits in her.
I’ve never had a gay friend. Not by choice, the scenario just never arose. I built a small circle of trusted friends when I was in college, and for the most part, kept to myself when I wasn’t being summoned by my father. I still can’t believe he’s gone. I’d wanted so badly to look him in the eyes before he died. I hope to get over that one day. He’s gone, and my life has changed dramatically as a result.
I’m here, for example. Outside, on a busy public street, with Ainsley, no hat or glasses for disguises on either of us. I’m not trying to hide, although every cell in my body sparks with anxiety, telling me I should be careful. Watchful. Mindful. These things will take time to let go. Even now, I’m sitting with my back to the closest wall, so I can see anyone who might approach. I have three exit strategies, including one leading through the bistro. My trained mind struggles to relax and enjoy the moment.
