Page 27 of The Heart You've Borrowed

“Have you dated anyone in the last few years?” I get the courage to ask.

“No.” He says flatly.

“Why not?”

“I don’t know, I just never really had an interest. I was busy building the company and never really gave it much thought.” He shrugs.

“Really?” I lift up onto my elbow.

“Is that so surprising?” He laughs.

“I mean kind of.”

“Why?”

“Because I mean look at you.” I laugh.

“What is that supposed to mean?” He scoffs, smirking.

“It means that you are a wet dream.” I roll my eyes.

“I don’t know how I’m supposed to take that.” He side-eyes me.

“It means that you are insanely attractive, have a great job, care deeply for those you love, you’re funny and smart. You know, you're like most women’s dream man.” I shake my head, biting my lip.

“So you think I’m hot?”

“Wow, is that all you got from that?” I roll my eyes again.

“I’m just kidding. I mean sure some people might see me like that but the only person I’ve ever wanted didn’t want me so I never put much thought into it.” He says softly, making my heart skip a beat.

“Oh.” I suck in a breath.

“I have loved you since day one and I will continue loving you until my last day. Charlie Mae, you are my heart, my soul, and my reason to live.” He reaches over and grabs my hand, bringing it to his mouth and kissing my knuckles.

“I think I’m in love with you,” I whisper, his hold on my hand tightens as he turns to face me.

“What?” He takes a deep breath.

“I think I always have been. I was just too scared to admit it before. But being here with you again is making me realize I’ve always been in love with you.” I feel the tears stinging my eyes.

“Do you mean that?” He swallows hard, turning to face me.

“Yes,” I whisper.

“I have waited so long to hear you say that.” He lets out a breath before cupping my face and kissing me hard. I welcome the kiss. Tilting my head so I can deepen the kiss. He moves on top of me, spreading my legs with his knee. He doesn’t break our kiss as his hands roam up my body.

“Lio.” I whimper into the kiss.

“Is this okay?” He kisses my jaw.

“Y-yes.” I stutter, chills breaking out over my body.

“Good.” His lips move down my neck as he lifts my shirt over my head. Once my shirt is off he throws it onto the floor and his lips are back on mine. My legs wrap around his waist pulling him closer and my nails dig into his back.

“Be mine, Charlie Mae.” He whispers.

“Always.” I pant. He slips off his sweats and pulls my shorts off of me.

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