Chapter 27
Hess
I wake up Sunday morning, grinning. Actually grinning. Like an idiot.
The first thing I think about is Camila.
The way her lips felt under mine, soft and urgent.
The little gasp she made when I pulled her closer.
How nice it felt to finally hold her in my arms. That kiss was a long time coming, and it delivered in a big way.
But the best part: she kissed me back like she meant it. And now my mind is reeling.
How can I convince this incredible woman that there could be a future between us? It feels impossible, but I’m up for the challenge. In fact, I like a good challenge.
I whistle while I make coffee.
Whistle.
I can’t remember the last time I did that.
By the time Camila comes out of her room, hair a little messy, pajama shirt slipping off one shoulder, I’ve already poured her coffee the way she likes it. I slide the mug across the kitchen island toward her. “Good morning.”
Her eyes narrow playfully as the corners of her mouth twitch. “You’re in a good mood.”
“Am I?” I lean back against the counter, sipping my coffee innocently. “I can’t imagine why.”
Her lips pull into a smile, just for a beat, before she covers it with a sip. “So…” she says as she swallows. “About last night. We probably shouldn’t do that again if we want to keep things uncomplicated.”
“Fine.” I shrug. “I’ll break the news to Daisy Duke that sunset rides and picnics aren’t your thing.”
She tilts her head, shooting me an exasperated look. “That wasn’t what I was referring to.”
“Hmm. I can’t think of anything else I wouldn’t do again.” And that’s the truth. I plan on kissing Camila a lot more than just last night.
She shakes her head, fighting a smile. “I just think our situation is already messy enough. We don’t need to add an unnecessary physical element.”
“Maybe it is necessary.”
“Hess,” she chides playfully, like we’ve been doing this kind of back and forth forever.
I set my mug down and walk to the island, placing my palms on the counter in front of her. Camila stiffens despite the three feet between us. “Did you like kissing me? Because I liked kissing you.”
Surprised laughter puffs out. “Whether we liked it or not doesn’t matter.”
“I think it’s the only thing that matters.” I walk around the edge of the counter so I’m standing by her side. Her eyes widen as I lean into her space. Close enough to feel her breath. Close enough that I know she feels mine. Close enough to see her pulse flicker at her throat.
“This isn’t a game to me, Camila. We’re no longer two people forced to live together, playing house.
I like you. I like you a lot. And I think you like me too.
I want to keep getting to know you and date you the way I would any other woman I’m interested in.
So yeah, I plan on kissing you again when you’re ready or when the time is right. ”
Her lips part, but no words come out.
My gaze flicks over her face, the faint freckles on her skin, the dark brown in her eyes. I hold her stare so she knows I mean what I say. “No more games or business deals. This is real for me. Okay?”
She swallows, barely nodding.
I back up, giving her the space I know she needs after everything I just said.
I grab my keys off the counter and force my voice to be light.
“I’m going to church with my parents and then to their house for dinner.
I hope I can see you later tonight if you don’t have too much work to do, but if not, I’ll see you when I see you. ”
And then I head for the door, grinning again in spite of everything.
Because last night proved it: there’s something here.
And I’m not letting Camila run from it forever.