But…I believe him.
He’s sorry, and I believe that.
Tired of the audience, I grab his hand, pulling him toward the hallway where he first kissed me.
I drop his hand when we’re alone, turning around to face him.
“I’m still mad at you, Cooper,” I tell him. “I want you to understand that. I’m still hurt, and this is something that’s going to hurt for a while. It felt like my dreams and my desires didn’t matter to you unless I was doing them the wayyouwanted them done, and I need to know they matter, especially to you.”
“Your dreams matter to me, Caroline, and I’m sorry I ever made you feel differently. You’re the most important person in my life. Not just as a girlfriend, but as a friend. And I don’t want to lose you as either.”
His eyes are pained, yet full of hope.
And I break.
I dive into his arms, and he catches me eagerly, wrapping his warmth around me like my favorite blanket.
His lips find mine and suddenly I’m pressed against the wall. He’s kissing me hard and fast, like he’s scared he’ll never get to do it again.
He kisses me for all the days he didn’t. For all the ways he hurt me and for all the ways he loves me.
His fevered touches turn languid until we’re barely kissing at all, just holding our lips together.
“Did you mean what you said up there?” I ask. “About being in love with me?”
“Hopelessly.”
I smile against him. “Your singing is god-awful.”
“That was so fucking embarrassing.”
“But you did it anyway. For me.”
“For you.” He presses his forehead against mine. “Because I’ve never felt this way about anyone before. I’ve never wanted this with anyone more than I want this with you. I love you, Caroline Josephine Reed.”
“That’s not my middle name.”
“No, but it should be. I think it’s my favorite one yet.”
I roll my eyes, and he tightens his hold on my hips. “Don’t roll your eyes at me.”
I do it again.
“Caroline…”
“Cooper…” I mock.
He shakes his head, smiling.
God, I’ve missed his smile.
He pulls back, eyes meeting mine. “Can you forgive me for being a colossal idiot?”
“Jury’s still out.”
“What can I do to help my case?”
“Hmm…” I tap my chin. “I’m not sure.”