She smiles at me, and I can see the sparkle in her eye. “I like that idea.”
I lean my head down to kiss her softly, my lips lingering on hers. Her hands find their way to my back, pulling me closer as our bodies press together.
The kiss deepens, and a familiar heat builds inside me. Catherine’s touch sends shivers down my spine, and I can’t get enough of her. We break the kiss to catch our breath.
“Thanks for helping me out earlier,” I tell her. “When Alice brought up Emily.”
Catherine gives my arm a comforting rub. “Of course,” she says. “I would never leave you hanging like that. I know how hard it’s been for you to talk about Emily, but I can tell your words pleased Alice.”
I nod, grateful for Catherine’s understanding. “It was tough, but it was worth it to see Alice smile like that. And I’m so glad we have you in our lives.”
Catherine smiles at me, her eyes full of adoration. “I’m glad to be here.”
I pull her closer, kissing her again with a renewed passion.
“Did you have a good birthday weekend?” she asks, tracing light kisses along my jawline.
“I did,” I reply, my voice husky with desire. “Thanks to you.”
Catherine’s eyes twinkle mischievously. “Is that so?”
I nod, my arousal building within me. “It is.”
She kisses me again, her body pressed against mine. As we lose ourselves, I can’t help but feel grateful for Catherine’s presence in my life. She’s become my rock, my support, and my love. As we continue to explore each other’s bodies, I can feel my heart swell with happiness. This is where I belong, with Catherine by my side.
Chapter 25
Catherine
Ipullintotheparking lot at Alice’s school, filled to the brim with excitement.
I just got a call back from the secretary of Jean-Paul Gaultier, a famous fashion photographer from New York. She informed me that Jean-Paul wants me to join his team during New York fashion week, and to work from his Manhattan studio for three months. Apparently, Susan is a good friend of his and recommended me.
Since I have a few moments before Alice officially gets out of school, I take out my phone and give my mom a call.
“Hey, Mom,” I say when she picks up.
“Catherine, how are you, dear? I haven’t heard from you in a couple of weeks.”
“Oh, I’m sorry,” I reply as I walk toward the front entrance of the school. “You know how it is working for Oliver. It’s been really busy lately.” I hesitate for a moment before continuing. “But there’s actually some good news: I got an offer to work on a project for a famous fashion photographer. His name is Jean-Paul Gaultier.”
I can hear the excitement in my mom’s voice as she says, “Catherine, that’s wonderful news.”
“Thanks,” I say with a smile. But then I remember that this means leaving home and being far away from everyone I love and care about, particularly Oliver and Alice.
“Catherine?” Mom says when I’ve said nothing further. “Are you still there?”
“Yeah,” I tell her. “The thing is, the job is in Manhattan. I’m just nervous about the idea of leaving Seattle. But this is such a great opportunity, it’s hard to pass up.”
“I understand, dear. You just need to do what’s best for you,” my mom says reassuringly.
I release an exhale. The promise of a work proposal that could help me fulfill my dreams has me on edge.
“Well, I have to go,” I tell her. “Alice is getting out of school any minute now. I just wanted to let you know.”
“Thanks for sharing the good news, honey. I know you’ll make the right decision.”
“Bye, Mom.”
