Finding Our Way (Finding our Way 1)

“I think so. We’ll upload tonight and see what we want to order.”

“Are you protective over your camera?”

“You have no idea. This is like my baby.” I hold it close to my chest in case he tries to grab it.

“Think you’d let that man over there take a few of just us?” He points to a guy watching us from the porch of the lodge. The man waves and starts walking over.

“You already asked him didn’t you?”

“Yeah, he’s been waiting for you to finish.”

“Just a few of us right?”

“Yeah, he’ll be careful, I promise.”

I nod and give the man a few instructions as he watches me amused. Bryce shoves my camera at him and pulls me away toward the tree line. Fresh snow covers the greenery around us. My mind instantly goes to how the right positioning will bring in the breathtaking scenery. I’m so wrapped up in deciding on a pose, I don’t notice Bryce lean down and lift me over his shoulder.

“What are you doing?” I scream, beating on his back.

“Making memories.” He spins us around then repositions me so I’m cradled in his arms. The smile on his face is contagious so I grin. Without thinking, I lean in and brush my lips across his.

He caresses the back of my neck and pulls me in deeper. The instant his tongue sweeps in and finds mine, he groans. My pulse races and I clutch his shoulders tightly. Heat and desire run through my veins for this man. I tilt my head to deepen the kiss, just as he pulls back, pecking me lightly and spinning us again.

We both start laughing and then I realize we have a small audience. Thank God none of them are our families. Bryce sets me back on my feet and I walk over to the man with my camera.

“Got some great shots, man. Hope you like them,” he tells Bryce and walks back toward a crowd of people waiting at the edge of the snow-covered desk.

“Do you know him?” I ask.

“Not personally. He’s the resort photographer. I asked a favor.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, babe. I wanted a few of us alone and it wasn’t a good idea to ask our parents or Nate.”

“Did you know I was going to kiss you?”

“No, but if you didn’t, I would have kissed you. Before you get embarrassed, let’s go eat.” He takes my hand and leads me to the restaurant.

My dad doesn’t hide his scowl when we walk in hand in hand, but my mom whispers something in his ear, which makes him relax. Throughout the meal, Bryce finds a way to touch me as much as possible. The small gestures leave a trail of heat where his fingers touch.

Once dinner is finally over, the parents decide to go to the lounge and Nate, Bryce and I head to the condo. I leave them to pick out a movie and call Quinn.

“Merry Christmas, bitch,” she greets me.

“Back at ya, babe. How was your day?”

“You know, the norm. Ate too much, took a nap, listened to my dad yell at the football games. Although I got a pair of kick ass boots. What about you?”

“It’s been interesting to say the least.” I tell her about everything that has happened since waking up this morning. She’s a little too quiet when I finish. “Your silence is killing me.”

“I’m pissed! Thrilled to death for you, but pissed for me. Who would have thought our first college bowl game experience, you’d have a boyfriend? Who’s gonna be my wingman? And let’s not forget we’re in MIAMI!”

“It’s a little early to say I have a boyfriend.”

“Don’t be an idiot. If what you’re telling me is true, which I know it is, Bryce has staked claim. No going back. Open your eyes, and your ears.”

“I’m giving him a chance, but also being cautious.”