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“You just realized there’s a fifteen-year age gap?”

Azalea glared. “No.”

“Then what did you just realize about our age gap?”

“That I’m tired of waiting, and I’m ready for the future. You have time to wait. I don’t. I want a family. You and me, together. I want to make the most of it with as much time as I can. I love you, J. That’s a fact, and if you’re in this too, then I want to spend as much time as I possibly can with you.”

“I think that’s the sweetest way anyone has ever asked me to move in with them, and the most morbid.” Laughing, Jewel dragged her forward again for a kiss.

“It’s not morbid.”

“It is, but I’ll give you that one.”

Azalea leaned back in her chair so Jewel could finish eating. She crossed her arms. “I assume you want a family. I mean, with me. You’ve talked about kids before.”

“Yes, I want a family.”

“You know it’ll be harder for us.”

“Since when have you ever been easy?”

Azalea’s cheeks reddened. She could think of a few nights where she was easy, especially when Jewel was involved. Normally she would have resisted, but with Jewel she found no reason to. Jewel gave her an odd look, but thankfully, didn’t push.

“So to get this clear, you’re asking me to move in with you,” Jewel restated.

“Yes.”

“Why?”

“Because I love you.” Azalea narrowed her gaze.

“No. Why now?”

“Because I have thought it through, and I don’t want to wait.”

“Wait for what?”

“Exactly.”

“You’re confusing me.” Jewel rubbed her temple. “I’ve broached this conversation dozens of times and I’ve never made a dent.”

Azalea shrugged. “Call it end-of-the-year insanity if you want.”

“I will not. Then you’ll take it back.”

“I won’t take it back.” Azalea squeezed Jewel’s thigh. “I promise.”

“Good, because I think I’m going to take you up on that offer.”

Those words made Azalea’s heart thump hard. “I do love you.”

“I love you, too.” Jewel winked.

Azalea grabbed Jewel’s empty plate, but Jewel stopped her, soft hands on her wrist. Azalea turned her full attention to Jewel. “Do I get my own drawer?”

“Yes.”

“Do I get my own closet?” Jewel sounded so serious.