Page 156 of Cowboys & Navy SEALs

They say I’m damaged goods, and I admit it absolutely, but baby you give me more hope than a person ever should.

I’ve got to learn to silence these fears and dry my tears.

Will you be there to hug me in the night?

Will you still love me in the morning light?

I’ll absolutely love you … for the rest of my life … until the stars fall from the sky.

She heard movement, realized Corbin was leaning against the doorframe. Her heart turned a cartwheel. He looked amazing in jeans and a snug sweater that stretched across his pecs. His messy hair was begging for her to run her fingers through it. She took in his lean jaw and arresting eyes, which were sparkling with amusement, making them look more amber. Wait a minute! The more she studied him, the more she got the feeling there was something off about Corbin. The rims of his eyes were a bit red like he might’ve been crying. Then again, he didn’t act like he’d been crying. He was probably just tired. They’d been under a mountain of stress. It was bound to take its toll eventually.

“Are you doing okay?”

He looked surprised. “Yeah, why?”

She tipped her head. “I dunno. You just look a little sad.”

He pursed his lips, shoving his hands in his pockets. “I’m good.” With that, the last traces of despondency vanished,making her wonder if she’d only imagined it. “I like the song.” His grin gave way to a full smile as he repeated the lyrics. “I’ll absolutely love you … until the stars fall from the sky.”

Heat tinged her cheeks. She hated that she always blushed when she was embarrassed. Once the song was recorded, it would be on display for the world. Why was she feeling sheepish about Corbin hearing it now? The answer came to her in an instant. Because he knew she was talking about him, that’s why. In her music she was most transparent, her innermost feelings coming to the surface.

She caught the pleased look on his face. Were his feelings for her real? “You forgot a segment.”

He sat down at the foot of the bed. “Oh?”

“I’ll absolutely love you … for the rest of my life … until the stars fall from the sky.”

The hope in his eyes sparked something inside her. This had to be real! No one was that good at pretending. Even when she was with Tuck, a part of her knew he was only pretending to be appalled by his brother’s behavior. Tuck had a reputation for being rough. She’d turned a blind eye to the rumors because she wanted so desperately for him to be her knight in shining armor. And, back then, Tuck and Hugh’s behavior was more a part of everyday life. It wasn’t until she got away from it that she realized how truly warped they were and how mixed up her own mother had been.

“I like it.” Corbin gave her a searching look. “I’d like to hear the rest.”

“Do you think Wallace will mind me usingAbsolutely? It has such a catchy ring to it.”

“I’m sure Pops will be honored.” He looked down at her notebook of lyrics and chords. “Is the song finished yet?”

“It’s getting close. I haven’t written the last verse and there are still a few tweaks to work out, but I’m pleased with the progress.”

“Sounds like you and Pops had a nice breakfast.”

She sensed his interest, even though he was trying hard to act nonchalant.

“Yes, we did.” She chuckled lightly. “He has some great stories.”

“That he does.” Corbin leaned forward and reached for her pencil, absently twirling it in his fingers. “What did the two of you talk about?”

It was Delaney’s turn to be amused. “He didn’t tell you?”

His lips drew together. “Nope.”

“Well, one of the things he mentioned is that you play the guitar and sing.”

His eyes widened. “He told you that?”

She couldn’t stop a smile from stretching over her lips. “Yep. Said you’re not half bad.”

He grunted. “Half bad, huh?”

She laughed. “Nah, just teasing. He said you were good.” Her eyes held his. “But I’d have to hear it to believe it.”

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