Page 83 of The Edge Of Us

"I'd love to," I said, and meant it with everything in me.

He grinned. "Then it's a date."

---

The evening air in London was cool, the city lights glittering like jewels across the Thames as we stepped out of the hotel into the waiting car. Jasper held the door for me and helped me in like we were in a period drama, his hand lingering on mine just a second too long.

I wore a deep crimson dress that hugged my curves, a statement piece from Luxe's winter collection. My makeup was soft,romantic, and Brittany had added a touch of gloss to make my lips pop. When Jasper saw me step out earlier, he'd muttered something about needing a moment to breathe.

Now, as we drove through the city, his hand rested gently on my thigh.

"You look like sin," he murmured.

I blushed, glancing out the window to hide my smile. "Is that a compliment, Senator's son?"

"It's a warning," he teased.

---

The restaurant was a rooftop venue draped in crystal lights and velvet chairs. Guests were already mingling-models, influencers, press-but all I could think about was Jasper. He never left my side. Every time someone approached, he introduced me as his date. His voice always had a touch of pride.

At one point, he whispered, "You don't know how good it feels to have you next to me like this."

I leaned closer, my voice quiet. "I think I do."

---

After dessert, when the dinner started winding down and people started drifting to the bar or lounge, Jasper leaned close to my ear.

"Want to get some air?"

We snuck away, laughing like kids. Downstairs, we wandered the quiet cobbled streets of London, passing by red phone booths and little cafes.

"Remember when we pranced around LA like fools?" he asked.

"I remember you buying me street churros and calling it gourmet."

"They were gourmet. The guy had a food truck license and everything."

I laughed, leaning into his side. "I haven't laughed like this in so long."

He stopped walking. Turned to me. The moonlight carved shadows across his jaw.

"That's all I want to do. Make you laugh. Make you forget everything else for a little while."

His hand slid around my waist, pulling me close.

"I've waited a long time to find someone like you, Corinne. I'm not letting go now."

Then he kissed me.

Not soft. Not hesitant.

A full, deep, open-mouthed kiss that had my knees trembling and my soul screaming. He kissed me like he needed me, like he meant every word he said.

When we finally pulled apart, I was breathless.

He rested his forehead against mine. "I look forward to having you for myself, Corinne Holt. I'm not going anywhere."

---