Breath Of Life

“Please. You knew he was.”

“He’s gotten a lot buffer since we first met. It’s all the PT.”

“I approve. A man that would give up his life for someone he doesn’t know, loves hard. You deserve that kind of devotion because it’s the only way you know how to love, with your whole being.”

I glance away. “We’ll see how it goes.”

“Are you playing it cool for me or you?” Riley asks.

“Both. It’s all happening so fast. I love him. We’re living together, and I can’t see going back to being on my own.”

“Wait a minute, what?”

“I haven’t felt safe since we agreed to testify against the robber we identified at the police station, so I’ve been crashing, and it’s the most ... normal thing in the world. I’m not annoyed or feeling caged in. He’s everything I could ask for in a man. I think he’s the one, Riley.”

“Holy shit. You’re serious?”

“As a heart attack. His little boy, Roland, is adorable. Rolly and I are fast becoming buddies, and I want to see him grow up.”

“That’s a big commitment.”

“I know. I keep telling myself to give it more time, but I know my feelings won’t change. His problems are mine and mine are his. I’ve never experienced this level of togetherness before. I didn’t think I could. After everything that happened with Joel, it was all about being on my own and remaining independent. I pushed away men who would’ve been a good fit because I didn’t want to give over control. With Ollie, it’s a compromise instead of a surrender. We find ways to meet in the middle, and talk it out. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.”

“Baby sister is in love.”

“I am.” It feels good to say to someone other than Ollie.

“Then I’ll welcome him with open arms,” Riley said.

“Thanks, big sister.”

“Anytime. Besides, you’ll need me once he meets Maximums.”

I groan. “Don’t remind me.”

“Come on, let’s join them. There’s no telling what Dad is asking him or Mom is telling him.”

“God, you’re right.” We rush toward them, giggling as we break out into a run and race one another like we used to do as kids.

“How did I do?” Ollie asks as we leave the house late that night.

“Passed with flying colors. I think my parents are ready to adopt you,” I say.

“They’re really cool. Your family is a good time, Quinn. I’m not shocked they raised such an amazing daughter.”

“Yeah, Riley is cool.”

“What?” He scoops me up and spins me around as I laugh. When he sets me on my feet, I loop my arms around his neck and pull his head down. I lean against the car as he cages me in with his arms. The bulge pressed against my belly makes me whimper.

“We should get home. It’s the last night we have the house to ourselves, which means you’re free to scream as loud as you want.”

“Only if you work for it.” I nip his bottom lip and press my palms to his chest.

He growls. The guttural sound sends butterflies flitting in my stomach.

“Be careful what you ask for, sassy.”

“Or what?”