Page 36 of Mistletoe Masquerade
Again, she chews at her lip as though mulling over what I’ve said.
“Is it my turn?” I ask in a low rumble.
“Your turn for what?”
“To ask if this is when I get my kiss.”
Her answering grin is magnificent. “Yes, please.”
“Sachi Asano, can I have a kiss?”
“Yes,” she breathes.
Fuck.
Yes.
I cup my hand around the back of her neck and hugher close with my other arm, then bring my lips to hers in a sensual promise. An unhurried apology sealed with a pledge to be the best man I can be for her.
There are no guarantees in life. Only time will tell if this will work out, but I want to try because this incredible woman is carving out a place in my heart with every minute we spend together. And this thing between us has only just begun.
CHAPTER 19
SACHI
I standfor several long minutes with my back against the door, grinning like a loon. I’m alone. Dean left after gifting me with the most sensual, reverent kiss I’ve ever experienced. It was so spectacular that I’m still lost in the moment. Still lost in the night that wasn’t supposed to be. I was supposed to go to work, then spend my evening licking my wounds with mint chip ice cream and sitcom reruns.
Instead, I feel like my life’s been turned upside down in the best way possible.
What Dean did tonight was a grand gesture worthy ofa Hollywood movie. I didn’t think that sort of thing happened in real life. But it does, and I’m living proof.
More grinning.
Lights.
It’s time to turn the lights back on.
I switch on every festive bulb in my apartment, then turn off the overhead light so that the twinkling colors are just as vibrant as the joy in my heart.
Once I’m comfy on the sofa, I call Dani because I can’t go to bed without telling her everything. Aside from my need to share this excitement bubbling inside me, she’d skewer me with one of her paint brushes if I didn’t call. She answers quickly because it’s later than I normally call. After assuring her there are no problems, I walk her through the broad strokes of the night’s events.
I’ll just say this.
Every girl should have a best friend who squeals with delight on her behalf.
Dani is so giddy, her husband runs from the other room with his gun in hand, which I only know because she has to pause and assure him there isn’t a home invasion taking place.
“Speaking of men with guns,” I transition back to our conversation. “I want you to know I told Dean that you guys are nonnegotiable. I’m not giving up my friends for him, and he promised it wouldn’t be a problem.”
“I’m glad he thinks so, but nothing is ever guaranteed, and that’s okay. No need to borrow trouble. We can crossthat bridge should we come to it. I’m just glad you’re willing to take a chance and see what happens.”
“True, but I don’t like taking chances when your lives are at risk.”
“It’s Tommy’s choice to do what he does. You’re not the one taking chances. He is. That’s on him. But I get what you’re saying, and I appreciate it. Just know that should something happen, you aren’t responsible for the consequences of his actions.”
Emotion thickens in my throat, making it hard to swallow. “Dang, Dani. When did you get so smart?” I tease to keep from bursting into tears.
“I’ve always been this smart. You’re just now catching up.” Her smug reply has me laughing out loud, as she intended.
