"I need to go," I tell Summer, already formulating a plan. "Call you later?"

"Of course. Love you."

"Love you too."

"Whoa," she says. "You've never said it back before. You always just say you too."

"I'm trying something new."

"I like it."

I smile. "Thank you, Summer. For everything. You're my best friend and I appreciate you so much. I don't know if I've ever told you that before, but it's true."

"You're going to make me cry!"

"No crying. I have a Marine to catch."

"Have fun."

I disconnect and sit there for a moment, thinking. He's been avoiding me, giving me space. It's my turn to take the lead and let him know how I feel for once. It's my turn to take a leap and put my heart on the line like he's done for me. And I know exactly what to do to show him how much I want to be with him.

I glance at the clock. It's almost noon. If I hurry, I can get what I need and get back before the hour is up. I grab my purse and slip my feet back into my shoes before grabbing my phone and heading out.

Kathy's at the front desk when I get there. She looks up at me, the phone stuck to her ear.

"Lunch," I mouth to her.

She gives me a thumbs up.

I duck out the front door into the sunshine, checking to make sure Killian isn't close. The parking lot is empty. He's probably still dealing with the plumber or one of the other thousand things that require his attention. He's putting in so much hard work to make this program a success. It's honestly impressive how much he's managed to accomplish in so short a time.

The people who find a place here are fortunate to have him in their corner. God knows, I'm lucky to have him in mine. No one has ever treated me like he does or made me as happy as he does. He may be rough around the edges, but that gruff personality of his hides a heart of gold. One that he's entrusted to me.

I hurry to my car as quickly as I can. My legs are a little stiff from sitting for so long and my thighs and pussy are a little sore from last night. I don't regret it though. I love that I'm carrying a little reminder of him today, especially since he refused to budge on doing it again this morning. I tried to convince him, but he's very stubborn.

I love that about him.

Hell, who am I kidding?

I love everything about him.

Tags: Nichole Rose Claimed Romance
Source: readsnovelonline.net