He rubbed the back of his neck. “I only wish I knew what time you were coming.”
She folded her arms. “I thought you wanted me here. You look disappointed.”
“I’m not.”
“I mean you begged me to come.”
“I didn’t beg you. I only wanted to know where your priorities are,” he said.
She cocked her head to the side. “So we’re going there again?”
“Andrea—”
“Are you even sure you want me here?” She shrugged.
He walked over and sat next to her on the bed. He took one of her hands. “I want you here.”
She turned to face him, still holding his hand. “Is something wrong?”
Was this the moment? Lance nibbled on his bottom lip. “Between the wedding and work, it’s a lot.”
She clutched his hand tighter and rested her head on his shoulder. “Why can’t it just be us?”
“What do you mean?” He asked.
She lifted her head. “I’ve been thinking. I like your mom, but…”
“But what?”
“You don’t think she’s too involved with... us? She left a few messages on my phone.”
If only she wasn’t right. “She has her ways, but she means well.”
“I know she loves you and only wants the best, but Lance if we’re going to do this, it needs to be you and me. Nothing can come between us. We’re starting our lives together.”
Their lives. Andrea was right. It was the two of them now.
“Andrea?”
“Yes?”
“I told you... remember when I said I was married before?”
“Yes. Why does that matter now?” She stared at him, focusing on his gaze. Reaching to touch his cheek, she caressed his face. “Is that it? I knew it.” Then she hugged him.
Lance held her tight. He had shared with her about his past, but Andrea didn’t know who his ex-wife was. Thankfully, Chantelle didn’t let on about their history.
Andrea grazed her fingers along the nape of his neck. Then she drew back, giving a small smile. “I can’t tell you I know how to be a wife. I wish I could tell you I won’t hurt you, but I know it won’t be on purpose.”
He looked back at her. “I can’t promise I’ll be perfect.”
“Is that what you’re worried about with us? All this time. Because... it didn’t work out with her?” Andrea asked. Her bottom lip trembled.
Lance swallowed. “I don’t want you to worry about that. You’re right. This is about us and our lives together.”
She kissed his lips, cradling his face in her hands. Then she pulled back. “I’ve been on a plane most of the day. If you don’t want me looking tired tomorrow, I think I need to get some sleep.”
Lance bobbed his head. He then checked the time on the alarm clock on the end table. “I’ll see you tomorrow for the interview.” He cupped her cheek and returned the soft pecks to her supple lips. With that, he stood to his feet.