Page 129 of Unraveling Rain
“You drove Minx here?” I ask, unable to hide my amusement.
She shrugs. “Yes, of course. That’s my only mode of transportation. Well, that and the RV. But I figured Minx would be a tad easier to navigate in the city.”
God, I missed her. I don’t know how I didn’t lose my damn mind all these weeks without her.
“We’ll pick her up tomorrow. I need to come for a morning skate. Is that okay?”
She nods, smiling, and before I can stop myself, I grab her waist and toss her over my shoulder.
She squeals, laughing uncontrollably as her feet kick in the air.
“Nuh-uh, Cherry. I’m carrying you all the way to my SUV,” I say, giving her ass a quick pat “And don’t worry, my shoulder’s as good as new.”
Her laughter is like a balm to every wound she left behind.
I can’t tell if she’s laughing because it’s funny or because she’s nervous.
Either way, she’s here.
And I’m not letting her go again.
Not tonight. Not ever.
Because I’m ready to get lost in the sweetness of her. In her touch, her laugh, the taste of her skin.
In the absolute certainty thatthisis what I’ve been holding on for.
Chapter 33
Rain
The entire drive to Raleigh, I was so worried Xander would turn his back on me—that I’d hurt him beyond repair. But the moment I saw him on the ice, I knew: even if that was the case, I would spend the rest of my life asking for forgiveness.
This man has become my entire world.
On the drive to his place, I tell him everything about the changes I’m making at the Rustic Spoon—how the team has responded to Blair becoming the chef, and howsmoothly everything’s running without me needing to be there all the time.
I know I still have to tell him about Dennis, but I want to soak up every minute with him before casting that shadow over us.
“Blair suggested I hire Gael as the new sous-chef, since she’s being promoted,” I say, my voice bright with excitement.
A smile spreads across his lips. “Is Gael the guy who made the extra-cheese quesadilla that one time I had dinner with Granny?”
“Good memory! Yes, that’s him. He’s young, but he’s great at following directions and eager to learn, which is always a plus.”
He nods, steering us through downtown Raleigh. I catch sight of a few restaurants I’d love to try.
“So what else is new? What have you been up to?”
I reach for his hand, needing to feel his warmth.
“I know we need to talk, and I promise we will. But tonight, let’s just enjoy each other’s company. Yes?”
He gives my hand a squeeze and nods.
“I’ll agree to that only if you promise me you’re not going to shut me out.”
I glance at him and nod. “I promise.”
