Page 137 of Her Goal
“What are you two doing in there?” my aunt Leticia calls.
Hudson’s nose brushes mine. His eyes are at half-mast.
“What do you think we’re doing?” I holler back.
A crowd gathers in the hallway as they speculate, but the chatter fades into the background.
To Hudson, I say, “They interrupt a lot. Interfere too.”
“Yes, I’m aware,” he answers, voice raspy.
“Thanksgiving is absolute family chaos. And Christmas? You won’t know what hit you.”
“I’m here for it. I like your family.”
I swish my lips to one side. “Ah. I see. That’s why you agreed to marry me, so you could take part in this madness.”
His lips ripple with a grin. “And other reasons.”
“What about your family … what if they took part in the holidays or showed up for our wedding?” My stomach leaps as I speak these specific words, but this is my last chance to prepare.
“They’ve never even come to one of my games.”
“What if they did?”
He lifts one shoulder. “It would be cool, I guess.”
I let out a long breath. Maybe the girls were right: I’ve been looking for red flags when green ones have been waving in front of my face.
“Okay, so one more thing …”
Both of his eyebrows lift.
I whisper, “I’ve fallen in love with you.”
His smile grows. “I know.”
I playfully swat him.
“Can we go get married now?” he asks.
“Well, maybe one more thing?”
He groans.
“Is it bad luck to kiss before the wedding?”
I’ve got his full attention. “We’ve already done things out of order.”
I blush at the idea of kissing him. “Great point. I’m glad you see it that way.”
“You’ll have to reapply your lipstick.” He flashes me a heated gaze.
“It’s a price I’m willing to pay.”
I cup his jaw and plant my mouth on his.
Gently gripping my waist, he draws me near.
