Page 139 of Meant to Be

JOSIE

It’s finally the day I get to leave. This entire week has been dragging. I already packed last night, but I’m gathering all the last-minute things I need before I head off. I’ve texted Harley a few times, he was meant to meet me here to say goodbye. I’ve been hanging around until he finishes work, but I haven’t heard from him.

I look at the time on my phone again and sigh. I gather my things and make sure everything is unplugged and switched off before I head out the door.

“Hey there.”

I spin quickly and see Harley leaning against the bonnet of my car, a duffle bag by his feet. He’s dressed in a plain white t-shirt and dark jeans. His sleeves are slightly rolled, showcasing his delicious biceps. His hair is windblown, his sunglasses peeking out from the darkness of his hair.

“What are you doing?” I ask in shock.

“Coming with you.”

“Really?” I ask.

“Yep.”

I squeal and run down the steps, launching myself at him. He laughs as he picks me up, spinning me. I tighten my legs around his waist and he presses my back against the warm metal.

He covers my mouth with his, our tongues dancing, fighting the other for dominance. I run my thumbs softly over his ears and kiss his nose.

“I take it that you’re happy with that?” He grins.

“Fuck yeah.” I grin back.

“You driving, or me?” he asks once I’m safely lowered back to the ground.

“You can drive,” I answer, tossing him the keys.

He slaps my butt as he rounds the car, sliding in behind the wheel. We stop by the diner, only getting there fifteen minutes before it’s meant to shut, and grab ourselves coffees and snacks for the road.

Once we pass theWelcome to Fern Grovesign, I physically feel myself relax.

“I am so excited for this,” I say. “You have no idea.”

“Oh, I think I do.” He smiles.

I scroll through my phone to find a playlist.

“What vibes are we feeling?” I ask.

“Energy booster, or road trip classics. Something fun.”

“You got it,” I reply.

I find just the one before I lock my phone and toss it back into my bag.

The sun is disgustingly hot, even at this time of the day. I crank the air con up higher and recline the seat back enough that I can comfortably rest my feet on the dash.

“I love that.”

“What?” I ask.

“That you always have really dark nails. It suits you.”

I glance at him in surprise, turning my attention back to my toes. They’re a sparkling navy blue. I bite the inside of my cheek to stop smiling.

“I was thinking we could stop in for dinner before heading to the hotel? It’s a pretty long drive.”