Page 109 of Don't Fall in Love

Sebastian’s voice is uncertain as he replies, “I just want you to be happy, Alex. And if that’s not with me—”

It’s not until he speaks that I realize what I truly want.Him. It’s always been him. From the day I walked into his office that first night to the moment I walked out of it a month ago. It’s always beenhim. I turn to face him, cutting him off because if he really has worked on himself and he’s ready to explore this with me, then I’ll willingly give him my heart.

He already has it because I never got it back.

“What if…” I swallow down my nerves, because despite what he’s just said, this might be too much for him. “What if I don’t want us to get to know each other first? What if I want it all with you?”

I don’t want to pretend or waste any more time. Not when I’ve spent so much time trying to hate him both before I had him and in the last few weeks. I want it all with him.

He rushes me, his strong arms wrapping around my waist as he tugs me into his solid chest and dips his head to capture my lips. I match him in my level of urgency. It’s been too long since I last tasted him.

He breaks the kiss, resting his forehead on mine as he cups my cheeks. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done any of the stuff I did. I was scared and it felt like I was floundering. I should have held onto you. Alex, I fucking love you.” He drops my head, takes a step back, his arms falling to his side as he looks out of the window.

“I’m nowhere near a fixed man, but I’ve been working on myself to be better foryou. Before we do anything, I need you to know that, and I will understand if you need to walk away. I don't want to hurt you again. I couldn’t live with myself if I did.”

“Bastian?” I call softly, drawing his attention back to me. My tongue swipes across my suddenly dry lips as I give him a coy smile. “I love you, too.”

I’m afraid he hasn’t heard me when doesn’t move or say anything for such a long time. I take a step forward, my hand landing on his forearm as I call his name again.

His voice is hoarse as he demands, “Say it again.”

My eyes search his. All I see is his love for me and the wonder at the love I know is reflected back in mine.

“I love you.”

I barely get the words out before he’s devouring my mouth, breaking the kiss occasionally to whisper, “God, I love you.” Over and over.

He picks me up and I wrap my legs around his waist as he strides down the hall to my bedroom, his urgency clear.

“I need you. It’s been too long. I need to make love to my fiancée,” he breathes against my mouth.

“I never said yes,” I tease.

His hands tighten on my thighs for a moment as he stares into my eyes.

“But you would, right?” There’s an almost boyish charm to him as he asks, and I don’t miss the hint of insecurity he’s not bothered to hide.

My hands cup his face as I rub my thumb over his cheek. “A million times.”

This kiss holds all the promises that we will keep. Of a life that we will build together. Our own family.

Bastian sets me down on my feet at the end of the bed. His face is lit by the soft glow of my bedside lamp and the weight that seemed to be on his shoulders earlier is long gone.

We stand in the dim light, looking into each other's eyes, our connection building with each second that passes by. His hands reach for the tie of my robe, a question in his gaze.

When I nod in confirmation, he pulls it loose until the lapels fall open. He doesn’t move to take it off and I squirm with anticipation.

“Bastian,” I plead, a warning in my tone. He’s going too slow. I need him now.

“I know, princess, I’m just savoring the moment.”

I take a step back, pushing my robe off my shoulders and pulling my oversized t-shirt over my head, leaving me in nothing but a royal blue lace G-string.

“Fuck, Alex. I’ve missed you.”

Moving toward him, I unbutton his shirt, my fingers fumbling on a couple. As the buttons come undone, I see the platinum of my rings. My fingers brush over them, as if to check that what I’m seeing is real.

My eyes dart to his. “You have my rings on.”

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