Epilogue
Where does this go? The last few months were a whirlwind. For a while there I thought starting the foundation before the season ended was a bad idea, but Grace grabbed hold of the idea, and the reins, and took off running. All I could do was try to keep up and be there if she dropped the ball. I dont know when she slept or even if she did. She was almost a blur of excited energy and amazing ideas.
When the season ended, she organised a black tie gala, like the one I missed. Of course, I didnt miss this one. I was by her side the entire night, and every night since. That meant she was at my place as often as not.
Eventually we had to accept that her living between two places wasnt good for the kids—I mean her cats.
In the corner, she said. No, maybe the other corner.
Id already put the cat scratcher in about three different corners in different rooms, but I was still smiling when I moved it again. Whatever made her happy, made me happy.
They wont jump off the balcony, will they? I knew nothing about cats, but I was about to learn.
No, they shouldnt. She frowned in the direction of the doors. Well have to keep an eye on them.
I plonked the scratcher down and swaggered toward her. Im not sure I can keep my eyes off you long enough for that. I wrapped my arms around her and drew her close. I would never, ever get enough of this.
She nestled in to me.
Damn, woman, why do you always smell so good? I inhaled the scent of her.
I could ask you the same thing. She exhaled softly. I should go back and get the cats.
They can wait a while longer, I said. I slid my hands down her side and cupped her rear.
Oh really? She pressed herself hard against me. You have something else in mind?
I pulled her up so she could wrap her legs around my waist.
As it happens, I do. I kissed her soft, warm mouth. She tasted like coffee. Now I wanted some, but not as much as I wanted her.
I carried her up the steps to our bedroom. There was time later to pick up her cats. Right now it was time to start the rest of our lives.
Together.