"It's okay," I say. "They can stay."
Miles is five feet away. "I usually write songs to avoid these kinds of declarations."
"You're screwed now. You have an audience and expectations."
He smirks. "If there's anything I know how to do, it's put on a show."
"All I want is the truth."
One more step. He's six inches from me. He brushes my hair behind my ear. "I love you, Meg. I had something perfect right under my nose, and it took me forever to realize it. But I realize it now."
Tom' voice booms. "YOU FUCKERS ARE MISSING OUT!"
A bedroom door slams and Pete appears at the top of the stairs. He spots Miles. "He's out of his room?"
Miles shakes his head. "They're really ruining the moment."
"No, it's perfect."
He slides his hand around my waist. "I'm not good at this relationship thing, but I want to do it with you."
"You sure?"
"Positive." He pulls me closer. "If you're willing to forgive me for being an utter idiot."
"Yeah." I lean into him. "The biggest idiot."
"I'll take that as a yes." He presses his lips into mine.
All of our other kisses were amazing. All of our other kisses set my body on fire. But this one is on another level. It's like every bit of need in him is pouring into me, like he's prying himself open for me and showing me all the ways he hurts.
The kiss breaks, and I pull back. I stare into his gorgeous eyes. "I love you, too."
And I swear to God, he melts.
The world is spinning around me. There's clapping. It's Tom, I think. Then it's Kara, and Pete. I look around the room, and Drew is there, too.
They're clapping, but it's not like this is silly. It's like they mean it.
Miles leans a little closer. "Assholes were convinced I'd die miserable and alone."
"Utter assholes."
"I'd say let's give them a free show, but I want you all to myself."
He presses his lips against mine again. It's as sweet as the first kiss of the night, but it's hotter. It's so hot, I'm pretty sure I'm going to ignite.
"Okay, I think that's my cue," Kara says. "You're taking her home tomorrow."
"Stay," Pete calls out. "We're going to have to blast a movie if we want to hear anything besides Miles screaming in ecstasy." He laughs. "Though, Meg, you're free to make as much noise as you want."
"That's my girlfriend, asshole," Miles says. "If that's okay with you."
My body fills with warmth. "Absolutely."
"You're lucky I'm preoccupied, or I'd kick your ass." Miles leads me up the stairs. "Tom, berate Pete about the loud phone sex."
"Any time." Tom sends us a salute.