Page 66 of Timber's Line

“Thank you for this,” she says as we walk hand in hand to the exit, stopping to see the other exhibits along the way.

“Anything for you, and I mean that.” I kiss her palm. “I want you to know that I meant what I said.”

“And then what? Is it about winning, or do you really want me?”

“You. I want you.” I kiss her lips softly and then open the door for her.

“What are we doing now?”

“Meeting the others,” I say.

“Where?”

“Mini golf. Memphis just texted me.” I laugh.

“Sounds fun.” She smiles at me, and I want those smiles only for me.

“Get in.” Ever waves at us. I can’t wait to drive my own car again one day. Or get a car. I haven’t had one since the accident.

“Did you have fun?” Ever asks as she sets the flowers in the back.

“I did.” Timber smiles at me. It chips away some more of the ice blocking my heart.

“I’m glad.” Ever gives me a thumbs up, letting me take the credit.

“Time to wipe that smile off Dayton’s face,” London yells from the parking lot of the mini golf place. It’s inside, so that’s good.

“You wish, jerk,” I call back.

“I love that everyone gets along,” Timber says, actually taking my hand.

“You belong,” I tell her, knowing where she was going with that.

“Thank you.” Everyone smiles when they see we are holding hands.

We play a few rounds of mini golf, and Timber relaxes. I think she feels out of place because she’s younger, but everyone loves her.

We head to dinner and she sticks to my side, exactly where I want her to be.

When she excuses herself to go to the bathroom, everyone pounces.

“Well?”

“It went well.”

“You didn’t say something you regret?” Easton asks.

“No, and I apologized,” I reply.

McKenna beams. “You kissed her.”

“I did,” I confirm.

“Fuck.” Memphis gets up. My eyes follow him, and I see the two guys who were eliminated cornering Timber.

“Sit down,” Brice orders.

“She’s my concern,” I tell him.