Sweeter Than Candy (The Davenports 1)

“Hey.” Her lackadaisical response makes me cringe.

“Can I come in?”

“Yeah.” She steps back, and I follow her, closing the door behind me.

“I thought long and hard about how this conversation would go. I thought of bringing you flowers and candy. Maybe buying you a gift. But none of it seemed like enough. So, instead, I visited Holly’s grave, and went to see my old in-laws.” Her jaw drops. “Because I wanted you to see how much you mean to me. I can see how my response would’ve made you feel unwanted, but that’s not the case. I was worried about hurting Mrs. B. She’s been through hell and back. My desire to prevent her from experiencing more pain, hurt you. I hate that. I went over today and set the record straight. They’re like my parents and an important part of my life. They’d like to have us both over for dinner.”

“Are you serious?”

“I am.” Grabbing her hand, I kneel in front of her. “I had a good past. But you are my future. In every version I imagine for myself, you are by my side. Not speaking to you over the past couple of days was hell on Earth. I wanted to call you a million times, but I had to work things out before I did. You deserve a man who’s whole and fully devoted to seeing to your fulfillment, growth, and happiness. I can now say with confidence, I’m that man.”

“Asher …”

“I am falling in love with you, Clara. Please, don’t let my misstep ruin us.”

Tears trail down her face. “I’m falling in love with you, too. And it terrifies me.”

“Good, we can be scared together,” I whisper.

She laughs, and I stand. “I won’t say what you did didn’t hurt, but I understand what a tough position you were placed in. One of the things I love most about you is your care and concern for those closest to you. I appreciate your apology and the way you made things right with your in-laws. I’d be honored to go to dinner at their house. We’re going to have misunderstandings, but I will not tolerate disrespect.”

“Nor should you,” I agree. I twine my fingers in her hair. “Are we okay?”

“We will be.”

“Good.” I brush my lips against hers and the sparks crackle to life between us. She tastes sweet and refreshing like the breath of fresh air she’s breathed into my life. We tilt our heads, deepening the kiss, and sealing our new promise for the future.

* * *

The End