Page 183 of Power Play

“I know.”

“I already did.”

“Yeah.”

She winced.

I let the truth sit between us for a second before pulling her closer. “But you drove four fucking hours to Chicago.”

Her mouth twitched. “I did.”

“That’s insane.”

“I know.”

“You could’ve called.”

“I know.”

“You could’ve waited three days until I got back.”

“I know.”

I stared at her. “You’re crazy.”

She gave me a watery smile. “I know.”

I laughed and finally pulled her against me.

This time, no fight remained inside it.

Charm melted into my chest and wrapped both arms around my waist. I buried my face in her hair.

“I fucking love that you came.”

Her grip tightened. “I needed you to know I was choosing you.”

That nearly undid me.

I pulled back enough to see her face. “You did.”

“I’m still scared.”

“I know.”

“I’m still going to care what my parents think.”

“I know that too.”

“I don’t know how fast I can change that.”

“I’m not asking you to sprint.”

Her eyes searched mine. “Then what are you asking?”

“To keep walking toward me.”

Charm nodded. “I can do that.”