He nods.
“Like a friend?”
He shakes his head.
I’m speechless.
He interlaces his fingers in my hand and pulls my hips closer to him with his other hand. “I’ve loved you for a really long time, Em. But I know you just wanted to be friends. And I know—”
“But—”
“Let me finish. I know this weekend you were just saying yes to everything, so I get that you don’t want more. But,” he exhales a ragged sigh, “I don’t just want one night with you.”
“Wait. Jack.” I pull out of his grasp and take a step back.
“Don’t go, Em.”
“I’m not going anywhere, I just need to see you. And I need you to see me. I’m not hiding anymore, and neither are you. It’s about time we opened up fully. Are you saying you love me?”
“I’m pretty sure that’s what I just said.”
I prop my hands on my hips. “Say it again.”
“Why?”
“I have my reasons.”
“Fine. I love you.”
“Say it again.” A grin breaks out on my face.
“I love you, Em.”
“And you’re sure this wasn’t just a one time thing?”
“This is a forever thing.” He stands and grabs me around the waist, sneaking his hands underneath my backpack and pressed against my lower back.
“If you’ll have me?”
“Yes.”
Best yes I’ve said all weekend.
Chapter 8
Jack
Myshouldersaresolight. It’s like the burdens I’ve been carrying were all swept away on this tour. Best fucking tour I’ve ever led.
I can’t shut up now that Emmerson and I are together.
“I’m so glad Clark got sick.”
“That’s a terrible thing to say, Jack.”
I chuckle because she knows what I mean, and I know she’s thinking the same thing.
“I’ve always loved the mountains, and now I have an even bigger reason to love them.”
