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I surrender, needing to feel his body pressed against mine. I bury my face in his chest and wrap my arms around his waist. His scent is pure masculinity, wholly Ethan, and I close my eyes as I breathe him in. His embrace feels more like home than any property or city ever could, and tears well in my eyes.
A camera snaps, capturing our moment, and I couldn’t care less. All that matters is the connection between us, the unspoken promise that hangs in the air by a delicate thread.
Because he’s here, with me, for all to witness, and that has to mean something.
I cling to him, and the agony of the past week diminishes.
He grasps my chin and directs my gaze to his. “I missed you.” He cups my face and kisses me, hard and claiming. It’s languid yet passionate, fueled by pent-up emotions. He’s demanding. His fingers tangle in my hair, gripping the strands, and I whimper, yearning for his possessive touch.
Our tongues intertwine, and a low groan rumbles from his chest.
God, I love that sound.
I trace the contours of his strong jawline, savoring the rough texture of his stubble, and I can’t help but smile. “I missed you, too.”
My words are breathless, and our chests rise and fall in unison. Ethan brushes my tears away with his knuckles, and the bubble pops.
Filled with dread, I frown, and my brows knit together. “We’re in public. There are cameras.”
“I know.” He kisses my forehead, lips lingering, as if he can’t bear to separate.
I glance at the two photographers just off the trail. “Are you sure?”
My only concern is the potential backlash he’ll face. My career thrives off publicity. The repercussions for me are insignificant compared to what he might endure from the team.
“Too late, baby girl. But yes, I’m more than sure.” He pulls away and interlaces our fingers. “Now, what’s this I hear about you looking at apartments?” His eyes darken beneath his lowered brows. “You trying to escape me?”
“I toured a place today. Is that what this is about?” My stomach churns. Is he here for me or because he thinks he’s losing me? Does it matter?
His jaw clenches. “If this is an ultimatum, it’s unnecessary.”
“And why’s that?”
“Because you’re mine.” His tone is firm, his gaze unwavering. “Can we go somewhere and talk?”
“Only if there’s food involved. Your son is being demanding.” I can’t resist the cheeky jab. “Much like his father.”
His face breaks into an unrestrained smile that crinkles his eyes and shows off those dimples. “Mind walking? I know a great place with all-day breakfast.”
“Sounds perfect.”
Before we part, he fists my hoodie once more, his bicep bulging in his pullover as he peers down at me. “Wearing another man’s jersey is a cardinal sin. Do it again, and you’ll be wearing my handprint on your ass. Understood?”
My retort is a salacious smile, my panties wet. If he thinks that’s a punishment, he’s greatly mistaken.
6
ETHAN
“You have your own table?”Awe colors Aurora’s tone, confirming my suspicion she put on the New York hoodie without knowing which team I played for or where I came from.
It also tells me Jackson isn’t here, because he’d tear it off her.
“I do. Just wait.”
I ignore the blatant stares and interlace our fingers, leading her to a secluded booth in the back. Once there, I guide her into the seat before sliding in next to her, eager to be close.
Her gaze moves to the photos on the wall, and recognition dawns on her face. She radiates excitement, a sight that tugs at my heartstrings.