Her cheek warms my nose as red blooms on her skin.

“I promise,” she whispers with a throaty purr.

I’m reluctant to let her go even though I said I would because I’m scared shitless she’ll change her mind about keeping her promise while she’s gone. With the time to come up with reasons why we shouldn’t hook up.

But that’s the problem now, isn’t it?

This isn’t about hooking up for me anymore.

I’ve been looking for a reason to stay in Towering Pines. Part of me always kind of thought Lily would be that reason. Even when Oliver—especially when Oliver wanted to keep me away from her.

That has to mean something. I hope it means I’m not the only one who wants more than a friends-with-benefits thing. Though, if that’s all she wants… I’d rather have Lily for a little while than not at all. I’d be happy to let her break my heart if it means seeing her do something that makes her happy, for once.

For as long as I can, I want to make Lily happy. Make her laugh, swear, and moan.

Starting tonight.