“A bit.”
“Then please call her.” I added, “Now.”
He arched an eyebrow at me. “Now?”
“I don’t want this morning to ruin our time together.” I spoke softly. “Please call her so you won’t worry or stress anymore.”
His hand cupped my cheek. “You’re remarkable.”
“I am?”
“You are.” His smile grew. “Which is why I love you so very much.”
How did his sweet declaration make me so euphoric and completely terrified all at the same time? It was somewhat of a mystery.
I was saved from having to sa
y anything as the elevator doors opened. I stepped out of the elevator and led the way back to our suite, talking over my shoulder to fill the silence. “I’d planned to have everything ready when the kids left. Will we be late getting in?” I led the way across the sitting room to my room.
“No, it’s a short trip.” He followed. “Did you enjoy London?”
I smiled at him. “Yes.”
“It’s been going rather well.” Josh was smiling as he spoke. “Except for this morning, I mean.”
I scowled at him then said, “It’s going great, Josh. Amazingly.” I glanced into the open suitcase on the bed.
He shot me a lopsided grin. “You sound doubtful?”
“It’s an adjustment. For me, that is. I keep waiting for something to…turn off the happy.” I laughed a little.
“I forbid it.” He made a stern face and I laughed. “The cottage might seem a bit small after this, though. And will be somewhat less elegant, as well.” He stared about the hotel room with meaning.
“That’s fine. I’ve been terrified Will would break something or Natalie would spill nail polish or soda on the silk upholstery.”
I went into the bathroom and quickly put all of my toiletries in my bag. After I’d made sure the cabinet was empty and I had all of my personal items, I took the bag back into the bedroom and put it in my suitcase.
“There’s only one thing I’ve loved about this room,” I said. “I didn’t have to share a bed. Will becomes a ninja warrior when he’s sleeping and Natalie talks in her sleep. Neither are the best bed partners.”
“If I promise not to kick you or talk in my sleep, will you let me share your bed?” His voice tickled my ear as he came up behind me. He moved my hair from my neck, dropping a warm kiss at the base of my neck.
I shivered under his touch. “I’ll have to think about it.”
He turned me in his arms, his mouth closing on mine with a soft growl. I loved the way his touch made me tremble. The taste of his breath, mingling with mine, instantly ignited a raging fire within me. His hand came up under my hair, holding my head as his lips parted mine and he deepened his kiss. His other arm came around me, grabbing my hip and pulling me against him. I gasped, feeling light-headed.
“We’re not going to leave this room if you keep that up. You’re a terrible distraction,” I told him, putting my hands against his chest.
“Terrible bad or terrible good?” His voice was hoarse.
I felt my stomach tighten, the rush of hunger spreading through me quickly. I laughed shakily, shrugging.
“You laugh now. Should I be insulted?”
“No. It’s me. I just lose control around you.” I looked at him, my cheeks warm and a hitch in my breath.
His hand came up to trace my face. “I hope you always do.” He kissed me very softly.
My desire was tempered by the sweet contentment his words stirred.