I kiss him back and feel all that emotion come rushing out. It’s an explosion in my core, a rush of warmth and excitement and joy, god, yes, joy. I linger in that kiss, wanting to stay in it forever, but slowly it breaks apart and he leans his forehead against mine.
“I love you,” he says and moves back to look into my eyes. “You don’t have to say it back. But I need you to know—”
“I love you too,” I say and kiss him again.
This kiss lasts longer. Those words swirl in the air between us and my body’s on fire. He loves me, he loves me, and maybe I’m not ready to forget everything that happened yesterday, but I’m ready to move forward. I’m ready to start forgiving him. I’m ready to let him prove himself.
“I’ll die before I let anyone hurt you again,” he says, staring into my eyes. “Do you believe me?”
“I believe you.”
“I’ll give you anything you want. I know it won’t make up for what happened, but it’ll be a start. Anything, Jeanie, you name it, and I will make it happen.”
I hesitate, mind whirling. What could I possibly want right now? I could have this man move mountains for me, but only one thing stands out. Only one thing shines like a beacon in my mind.
“I want to talk to my father.”
His lips quirk into a confused smile. “Malcolm?”
“That’s right. I want to talk to him. And I need some lawyers.”
He nods slowly, looking bewildered. “I can make that happen.”
“Good. I assume things are bad between you and him?”
“Well, I did kill two of his guards and his personal assistant. But he did kidnap you, so we’re sort of even there. He’s dealing with the fallout with his staff.”
“If you let me talk to him, and you promise you’ll trust me, then we can start moving forward.” I reach to and touch his cheek. “Just don’t you ever throw me away like that again. Talk to me first, Gavino.”
“I swear it.” He takes my hand in his and brushes my fingertips along his lips. “I swear to you, Jeanie.”
“All right then. Now get me some of that bacon. I need a little strength if I’m going to confront my piece of shit dad.”