Page 67 of Vince
“Okay…” I draw out, buying myself some time.
Out of nowhere, I hear my mom’s favorite truths loud and clear.Honest simplicity will go much further than lengthy explanations.
“First, I’m fully aware that you’re more than capable of handling yourself. But if you were in my shoes, would you be able to sleep after our brief text exchange? I’m not one to sit idly by and stew on things when I can confront the situation head on.”
“But still…” A bit of steam releases as her rigid posture droops.
“Seriously, Syd. What did you expect me to do? Toss and turn all night wondering if you’re okay, when I know it will be after closing before you can respond? I don’t think so.”
“You still didn’t have to stay all night.” She juts out her chin in my direction as one fist punches her hip, holding firm to her beliefs that I’ve overreacted, I’m sure.
I run a finger down my nose as I work through my words carefully. “Uh… If I remember correctly,you’rethe one to tell me to take a seat—that you’ddealwith me later.”
She opens her mouth to say something, then shuts it.
I have her here… she can’t argue about me staying all night, and she knows it.
Instead of letting her stew for long, or come up with another excuse for why she’s mad at me, I forge ahead with my point. “I will never sit by when the people I care about are in need.”
Sydney sucks in a deep breath and releases it slowly as she looks to her watch. “Look… it’s late. Even though youclearlyoverreacted, Idoappreciate your reasons. I…” She looks to the sky as she releases another deep breath. “I… I guess I can see your logic. But so we’re clear… if I need your help. I’ll ask for it. You don’t need to come barging down here like a bat out of hell otherwise.”
“Duly noted… but so we’re clear, if I think you’re ever in danger… all bets are off.”
“Total Neanderthal…” she mutters more to herself than me as she rolls her eyes to the sky.
The thought of her truly being upset with me is unsettling at best, so I ask for reassurance, “Are we good?”
Slowly, her eyes rise to meet mine, but her expression is unreadable.
I’m not sure when her answer became so crucial, but in this moment, it feels like the most important thing in the world. My breath hitches as I wait for her to fully assess me. Her eyes slowly close, leaving me any window of opportunity to decipher her mood.
Slowly, she nods, and my breathing returns to normal.
“We’re good.” She nods in agreement, and relief washes through me.
I close the distance between us in an instant. My hand lands on her hip, and I pull her to me. Reading my intentions, her head naturally tilts to the side as my lips slant over hers.
When I press my lips to hers, I feel the tension I’d been holding onto slip away. Her body melts into mine as she runs her fingers through my hair. God, this woman can kiss. Knowing that she’s no longer upset adds fuel to my fire, but I force myself to remember we’re in public. In all too short of time, I break the kiss and simply pull her in for a hug.
“I’m sorry I upset you,” I whisper as I kiss the top of her head. Even after working all night, she still smells like vanilla and spice and hints of her apple shampoo.
“I’m sorry I worried you,” comes out as muffled words against my chest.
She squeezes me tight before pulling back to look me in the eye. “You have an early morning. You didn’t need to come down here.”
I will always be here if I think she’s in need. Though instead of arguing this point, I deflect, “I’m not the one spending the day with a three-year-old,” I remind her. “I’m used to her energy,you’re not. Let’s get you home so we can both get some sleep.”
Sighing heavily, she releases her arms on me completely and turns to cross the street. “I suppose you’re right,” she practically pouts, and I can’t help but smile at how adorable she is. Clearly, she doesn’t want our time together to end, and that thought alone makes my heart soar.
Reaching for her hand, I lead her across the street to her car. “I’ll follow you home and make sure you get inside okay, since it’s on the way. Then I’ll see you bright and early in the morning.”
She unlocks her door and turns to face me. “You don’t have to do that.”
“I know,” I admit. “But I’m going to all the same.”
Her beautiful lips spread wide as a giggle escapes. “I’m beginning to see that.” She reaches up on her toes to close the distance between us. She kisses me quickly then whispers, “Thank you, Vince.”
“Anytime, Syd. Anytime.” I squeeze her in a hug once more then turn to open her door. “If you’re lucky, she’ll nap tomorrow. Though those are rare. But if you take her for a bike ride and wear her out, you just may get some rest yourself tomorrow afternoon.”
“I’ve survived on less sleep. I’m sure I can handle Julia tomorrow. You don’t have to worry.”
“I’m sure you can handle anything, Syd,” I say as I kiss her chastely once more before shutting the door. “Now let’s get you home.” I shut the door and jog over to my Jeep, so she won’t have to wait for me.
It takes us no time to get to her apartment as the streets are empty. I patiently wait for her to park and walk up the stairs. She waves and blows me a kiss as she turns to go into her apartment. Her playfulness makes me laugh aloud. Damn. I love how full of life she is. Even though I clearly upset her, I’m still glad I got to spend this stolen time with her.
