Page 32 of Palm South University: Season 3

“And I know how important this opportunity is to you,” I counter, leaning into his touch.

He frames my face with his hand, thumb rubbing the line of my jaw. “You’re important to me, too.”

“I know.”

For a long moment he just holds me, and I watch him, knowing I’m not making it easier for him to stick to his decision when I make him doubt us in any way.

“We’re going to make it through this,” I whisper. “I won’t lie and say I’m not scared, but we’ll be okay. I know we will.”

Jarrett sighs, relief washing over him as he tugs me into his chest and wraps his arms all the way around me. I inhale the smell of him, wishing I could bottle it up, wishing I could keep us in this moment forever.

“Want to throw me in the back closet for old time’s sake?” I ask with a grin, pulling back from his hold and grabbing his hand to lead him inside.

He smacks my ass with a smile of his own. “You’ve got to find some cowgirl boots first. You know, to keep the memory authentic.”

I laugh as we dip inside the glass doors, joining the girls along with Clinton, Adam, and a whole slew of their brothers. And the rest of the night is easy, Jarrett getting along with everyone he talks to, and me letting go of my fears, if even just for the night. We dance and laugh, drink and play, and when last call comes and goes and I’m back in the sheets with Jarrett, I know only one thing really matters.

I’m in love with a man who loves me, too.

Whether it’s forever or just for right now, I vow to make the most of every minute I can say that.