Page 80 of Start With A Slap

Jason.

Was standing at the end of the runway.

With a huge bouquet of red roses.

“Well,” Sever said curtly. “Isn’t that sweet.”

He wasn’t supposed to meet her there. Feeling faint, Ivy did all she could do: grin wide and wave. “Ohgod.”

Sever heaved a sigh. “Right, then. Let’s not keep the husband waiting.”

“I can’t. I can’t move.”

“No reason to panic. Breathe. Clear your mind.” Sever steered her elbow. Did he have to wear black leather gloves? “I’ve got you. Come down the stairs with me. One step at a time.”

One step at a time. Step. Step. Step. Step. Solid ground.

“I’m going to walk you to him now,” he said, voice competing with a jet engine. “Follow my lead. All right?”

“Okay.” This was so wrong — in somanyways — but they both knew that if he didn’t give her this push, she’d still be frozen on the hydraulic platform.

“Smile, love.” He smiled ahead at Jason. “A spouse’s capacity for denial knows no bounds. Hewantsto believe you’re faithful.”

Wise words from the seasoned cheater. She whimpered.I’m a cheater.

“Now, go on ahead,” he told her once they were near. “But don’t get too showy, might hurt my feelings.”

“Ha,” she said, given the exact fuel she needed to get showy.Jason! My gorgeous wonderful husband! Who I love and missed and love!“Baby! You came to get me! That’s so sweet!”

“Nice voice, Scratchy,” Jason laughed, and hugged her tight.

She cautioned before his lips met hers, “I could be contagious.”

“I’ll take my damn chances,” he said, and kissed her overzealously, crushing the roses between them. “I missed you, babe.”

“Me too. It felt like forever. Did you get my text?”

He nodded.

“Go easy on her, now,” Sever said. “She got a little feverish on the plane.”

Ivy turned to glare at him. What happened to Helpful Guy?

“I’ll take it from here.” Jason gave her waist an extra-possessive squeeze as he shook his father’s outstretched hand. “I know just what to do for her.”

Whoa. Did Jason just pee on her a little? And were they still shaking hands and staring at each other like they were ready to rumble? She had to say something.

“It’s true,” Ivy chirped. “His chicken soup is a magical elixir.”

“You’rea magical elixir,” Jason said with a gentle nudge, and she laughed.

“Right. Well,” Sever said. He looked uncomfortable. “I’ll leave you to it, then.”

Ivy sniffed her bouquet.

“Is a hug from my daughter too much to expect?”

She nearly inhaled a petal and choked on it. Mydaughter?

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