Page 28 of Snowed in with the Grump

Ava props herself up on one elbow.

“Hey,” she says suddenly, breaking the silence. “Can I ask you something?”

I hold her hand tenderly. “Sure.”

Ava's eyes search mine, open and vulnerable. “Have you ever wanted something so badly it scares you?”

She's put herself out there, taken a risk. How can I do any less? I take a deep breath.

“You're not the only one,” I say quietly.

Ava’s eyes came alive. “I have a confession to make.”

Curiosity tingles through my veins. We haven't talked about what’s happening between us. I don't want to spoil things with any more misunderstandings.

I lean in, urging her on. “What is it?”

A smile tugs at the corners of her lips. “I'm falling in love with you.”

I hold her gaze, my eyes mirroring her vulnerability. Words are not enough. Actions are the truest testament of love. I gently cup her face, my touch reassuring her in a way my words never will.

I take her hand, intertwining our fingers together. “I'm falling for you, too.”

She kisses the corner of my mouth, a feather-light brush of her lips. “I’ve wanted you since the day we met. I was waiting for you to see me as more than your sister’s friend.”

“I’m sorry it took me so long,” I say ruefully. “Turns out I can be pretty stubborn. And blind.”

“You’re here now.” Ava rests her head on my chest again with a contented sigh. “That’s all that matters.”

My heart swells with emotion. I gently cradle her face in my hands and kiss her deeply. Our kisses grow more passionate as we get caught up in each other.

* * *

The day passes quickly,and later that night, I watch Ava’s chest rise and fall with each breath as she curls up against me. Marveling at how perfectly she fits in my arms, it's easy to forget everything else when she's like this--so trusting and vulnerable.

Ava is silent as I trace my fingers along her arm. Suddenly, her body tenses. Slowly, she lifts her head, brow furrowed--something is troubling her.

“What’s wrong?” I ask, gently tilting her chin up.

Ava bites her lip. “What happens to us when the storm ends and everyone returns?”

“You’re worried about telling Sarah, aren’t you?”

“She’s my best friend, like a sister. But what if she disapproves of this?” She gestures between us.

“Why wouldn’t she approve? You two tell each other everything.”

“This is different. I’ve never told her how I feel about you. I don’t want to ruin our friendship.” Ava’s voice wavers, and she blinks back tears.

My protective instincts surge. I pull Ava close, stroking her hair. “Sarah loves you and wants you to be happy. And if I make you happy—”

Ava bites her lip. “I’m happier than I’ve ever been.”

I kiss her forehead, wishing I could shield her from all harm and the doubt clouding her eyes.

“Let’s not worry about it,” I soothe. “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.”

I’m baffled as to why she believes our relationship will drive a wedge between her and my sister. But I make a silent vow—whatever happens, when the others return, I’ll stand by Ava’s side. No one will take her from me, not even her best friend. I won’t allow it.

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