Page 64 of Beneath the Blue Moon

***Casey***

A gentle breeze, leaves rustling on the trees, birds

singing, his even breathing and strong, steady heartbeat. I could stay like

this forever. His fingers slide slowly up and down my arm, and I settle further

into his embrace. Yup… It’s mighty cozy on my back porch swing. J. Holiday’s “It’s

Yours” is on repeat in my head for some reason. No, I know exactly why. I briefly

look up at him, and he drops a kiss on my forehead. I am his.

I didn’t understand his mother’s reaction to me. Was it me,

or is she that way with all his girlfriends?

“Your mother doesn’t like me.”

“Why would you say that?” he asks.

“I’m not blind. I saw her face today, and I also saw the

look you gave her.”

“She doesn’t know you.”

“But she’s already made up her mind not to like me.”

“She will.”

“At least you were right about your dad.”

“Of course. I told you, everyone’s going to love you.”

I turn my face toward his, staring up at him from where my

head rests on his chest.

“You know, Daddy gave us his blessing.”

“I’m a great catch, why wouldn’t he?”

I smack his chest, and he chuckles. “That right there is why

he shouldn’t have.”

“Okay, I’ll stop. What did he say?”

“He asked me if you’re a good man, and if you treat me like

a queen.”

“And what were your answers?”

“Yes… and yes. Then he asked me if you make me feel safe.”

“And?”

“Yes.” He strokes my cheek with the backs of his fingers,

staring down at me tenderly. “And then he asked me if you make me happy.”

“Do I?”

“Yes, you do.”

“I’m glad, because you have made me the happiest man on the

planet.”

“I have?”

“Isn’t it obvious?” he asks.

“Lunch is ready, you two,” Clara interrupts before I can

answer.

I turn to Clara with a smile. “Thanks.”

Before stepping inside, I turn to him and take his hands in

mine. As I stare into his eyes, it’s crystal clear. He’s happy. I make

him happy.

“You know, I was scared to leave New York, but now… I’m glad

I did.”

“Me, too, honey. Me, too.”

As he smiles down at me, I somehow feel… whole. He’s

brought so much joy to my life in such a short time. I need to do something to

show my appreciation. Maybe I could get him a gift.

That’s it. As soon as he leaves, I’m scouring the Internet

for the perfect gift for my perfect man.