Page 40 of Long Story Short

I could easily pull her body into mine and find out…

I shake my head. She needs to be fed. It drove me crazy to find out she wasn’t getting proper nutrition while on a deadline, and here I am thinking about making her go hungry just so I can kiss her.

Even though it pains me, I let go of her hand as we walk up to Pembroke’s front entrance. I’d gladly walk in with her hand in mine, but I doubt that’s something she’d want. I was a little shocked she was okay with coming to Pembroke alone with me in the first place. People will talk the moment they see us together. It’s just what happens when the social circles are as small as they are in our world. I would’ve understood if she preferred to lie low and eat at home, but the fact that she agreed to come here with me was a win enough. I don’t need to walk in holding her hand—yet. I can’t help but picture maybe one day strolling through the front entrance hand in hand, but I recognize today isn’t the day for that.

“Good morning, Mr. Bishop and Ms. Russell,” one of the front desk workers greets. She gives us a warm smile as she holds the door open.

“Morning,” I respond, tilting my chin up to her as my hand finds the small of Josie’s back.

“Where are you headed this morning?” the woman at the front desk asks.

“Pembroke Grill,” I answer, using my free hand to point in the direction of the restaurant.

“Perfect. They’re currently serving brunch for another two hours. You can head in that direction, and the hostess will seat you.”

“Thank you,” Josie says as I lead her toward the restaurant.

The smell of freshly brewed coffee and cinnamon wafts our way, making my mouth water. I woke up fairly early and had a small breakfast, but that was hours ago. I’m looking forward to eating again—and spending more time with Josie. I’m hoping that while we’re eating, she’ll share more about how she’s feeling about the book after finding some inspiration last night.

We stop at the hostess stand, and the country club employee greets us with a smile. “Good morning! We’re so excited to have you here at Pembroke Grill. Would you rather be seated inside or outside today?”

I glance over at Josie, not knowing which she’d prefer. A quick scan of both options shows that they’re equally busy.

“Would you mind eating outside?” Josie asks, giving me a soft smile. “It’s so nice out, and I’m probably going to be cooped up inside later, working. Getting some fresh air this morning would be nice.”

“We’d love a table outside, please,” I tell the employee. I try to get outside as much as I can, so I prefer the patio anyway, but this morning is all about Josie and what she wants, so I would’ve been fine with either.

We’re both quiet as the hostess leads us outside. The weather really is perfect today. She sits us at a corner table that has a perfect view of the rolling green grass of the course and the sparkling blue of the ocean in the distance. There’s a slightly cool breeze coming in from the ocean as we take our seats, but the temperature feels perfect, thanks to the sun shining down on us.

“Would you like the umbrella up?” the hostess asks as she sets one menu down and then the next.

My eyes find Josie’s. She smiles and turns her attention to the hostess. “No, thank you. Being in the sun is perfect.”

The employee nods her head. “Your server will be with you soon. Enjoy your meal.”

She walks away as Josie’s eyes find mine once again. “This place really might be perfect,” she marvels, a small laugh escaping her.

The sunlight catches in the soft waves of her hair, turning a few strands of her dirty-blonde hair almost golden. Her eyelids flutter shut as she soaks in the sunbeams, her lips curving into a radiant smile.

I use the opportunity to take her in without her knowing.

My gaze drifts slowly over her face. It sweeps over the high points of her cheekbones, the faint dusting of freckles across the bridge of her nose, the gloss on her lips that twinkles in the light from the sun.

My chest tightens.

She’s breathtaking. Especially like this.

Relaxed.

Content.

Not pulled down by the stress of having to finish a book in record time.

For a moment, I swear the entire patio fades away until it’s just her.

I couldn’t tell you who else sits outside. My sister could be at the table next to me, and I wouldn’t know. I’m too focused on soaking in every moment of watching Josie finally fully relax for the first time since I met her, and it’s the most beautiful sight in the world.

“Good morning,” a voice says, interrupting my thoughts and reminding me that there are others around us. “Can I get you both started with some water?”