At First Hate (Coastal Chronicles)

“Thank you.”

We stayed in front of Gran’s and Gramps’ headstones as I regaled them with the story of what had happened in court. Then, I followed Derek back to the car. He kissed me in the parking lot.

“Well, Mrs. Ballentine, where to?”

I laughed and ducked my chin. “I’m never going to get used to that.”

He grinned. “Oh, I think I’m going to say it over and over and over again until you do.”

“I love you.”

He threaded our fingers together. “I love you too. What’s the plan now that you’re free?”

“The world, husband,” I joked.

“You’re thinking too small, wife,” he said with a wink. “To Mars.”

“And back.”