Page 33 of Swan

“I’ll just have water,” I told him.

“Do you have Carlton Draught?”

“Yes. I’ll be back shortly.” He walked away, and I took a quick glance around.

“I think we’re in the clear.”

Lockland took my hand and smiled, brushing his thumb over my skin. “That’s what I love about country towns. The people seem to be less in your face. Even if they did notice me, they’re respectful and wait until I look approachable.”

“Cities are different?”

“Very. And don’t get me wrong, I still have my moments in country towns, but it’s a lot less.”

“Do you have a favourite place to visit?”

“Here. With you.”

Heat hit my cheeks. “That’s very sweet, but is there another?”

“I got to go to Antarctica once. I’ve always wanted to go back. The place is magical. One year I’d love to take you.”

“I’d like that,” I said softly.

“Swan, when I asked you about Japan, I don’t want you to feel you have to go. We could do long distance for a while.”

I shook my head. “I’ve already made up my mind, though.”

Even with all the time that had passed, I could still tell what he was feeling, and right then, he looked hopeful but played it casual, saying, “Oh?”

“I would love to travel with you, Lockland.” A new blush rose from just thinking of my next words. “I don’t want to have any more days without you in them.”

“Angel,” he whispered and swallowed. He brought my hand up to his lips and pressed a kiss there.

A shiver raced down my spine.

“Japan will be the last tour I want to do. The sooner we can get back here, the better.”

“Do you really want to live in Ballarat again?”

“I wouldn’t take you away from this place and your family. Plus, it’s always felt like home to me.”

I gave him a watery smile. “I worry you’ll do all this for me and regret?—”

He stood and knelt beside me, cupping my cheek. “I’ll never regret anything that involves you, Swan. I know we’ve missed a lot with each other, but you’re my sanctuary. That will never change.”

I sniffed. “Lockland.”

He grinned before he pressed his lips to mine, making flutters come to life inside me.

A throat cleared just as our drinks were placed down. “Sorry to interrupt, but are you both ready to order?”

Lockland chuckled as he stood and took his seat again. “I’ll have the steak with mash, gravy, and vegetables.”

“And I’ll have the gnocchi, please.” We handed him our menus before he took off to put our order in.

Lockland shifted his chair closer to mine, and we shared a smile.

Would it ever sink in that Lockland was really mine?

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