‘Have you enjoyed your birthday?’ came her soft voice, breaking into his meditative state.
‘It’s been nice.’ His focus went back to their hands still touching. ‘Thanks for my coffee mug. Best present ever.’
Beth’s laugh was hushed, filling him with warmth. ‘Archie says you’re welcome.’
‘Is he still with Lottie?’
‘Yeah. I think she loves him more than we do.’
Spencer laughed. ‘I think you’re right. In fact, I do believe our little man has half of Port Berry wrapped around his finger.’
‘It’ll be nice for him growing up here.’
A fizz of delight took over from any churning. ‘Would you stick around then?’
‘Don’t see why not. I’ve only just moved here, where I work isn’t far, and Archie will have both his parents close if I stay.’
‘Definitely. What are your plans for Archie when you’re back at work?’
‘Day care.’
‘I can help with that. Perhaps be the one to pick him up at home time.’
‘Yes, a shared schedule would be great.’
He leaned up on one elbow. ‘I’m glad you found me.’ There was a definite smile in her eyes as she gazed up at him, which he felt settle directly in the middle of his heart.
‘I’m glad too,’ she whispered, placing her hands behind her head.
Spencer scanned her long neck, then moved up to her mouth, before resting back on her eyes.
Don’t you kiss her.
She wasn’t looking away, and he wondered if she would approve of him lowering his lips to hers.
Get a grip, Spence.
He flopped back to her side, inhaling the late evening air in a steady and controlled manner.
‘I could sleep here,’ she said quietly, as though any louder would remove the tranquillity. ‘If there wasn’t that nip in the air,’ she added, giggling.
It was then he noticed she wasn’t wearing her coat. Quickly, he sat up and removed his. ‘Here. This will help.’
Beth took a sleeve. ‘Won’t help you though.’
‘I’m good,’ he told her, lying back down. He smiled as he felt his coat drape over half his body.
‘We can share.’
There was more warmth entering him than from the coat. Beth was snug at his side, and when he stole a glance, he could see her eyes were closed and her smile slight. Every ounce of willpower he had stopped him from turning to cradle her into his arms. It was just the beauty of the night playing havoc with him. The stars, the sea, being snuggled beneath the coat together.
‘Five more minutes,’ she muttered. ‘Then we can go home and have some hot chocolate. You can use your new mug.’
The thought made him smile and turn to watch her once more. ‘I’d like to go home now.’
Her eyes opened to stare his way. ‘Are you cold?’
‘No, just rather get Archie settled for the night before I get too tired.’
