Page 113 of Have To Be Mine

“What the hell?” I managed between laughs. “Only you could say that and make it sound comforting.”

“I’m gifted that way.” She grinned. Then her expression turned serious again. “But I mean it, Dash. You’re not a screw-up. Your father knew your heart. He was proud of you—for who you were, who you are, and who you’re yet to become. He was doing what dads are supposed to do. He was offering you guidance. He knew you were going to grow up one day. I bet he loved your personality.”

Something in my chest loosened at those words. Who I’m yet to become.

I liked the sound of that. I had big ideas about who that person was going to be. A creative director who actually created things instead of just made other people’s big ideas come to life. I wanted to be a man who showed up for his family instead of running from them.

And if I was really dreaming big, I wanted to be a husband. And hopefully a father. And one day a grandfather. I saw a huge future that never seemed possible before but now it was right there for the taking.

I pulled her closer, kissing the top of her head. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” She snuggled into me, her body fitting perfectly against mine. “Even if you are a reformed slut.”

“Reformed is generous.”

“Don’t push it, Blackwell.”

I smiled into her hair, feeling something settle deep in my bones. Peace, maybe. Contentment that gave me a strange glow that emanated from deep within. Like my soul was actually glowing. An aura, I think that’s what they called it.

“How long can you stay?” I asked her.

“I don’t know. How long are you staying?”

I grinned. “As long as we want.”

“I didn’t bring any luggage.”

“Good because we both know you would have packed all that atrocious shit. I get to dress you like my little doll.”

“As long as you don’t treat me like a princess.”

I closed my eyes and let myself drift, Krista’s breathing evening out against my chest, and for the first time since my father died, I felt like maybe I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

38

KRISTA

Iwoke up to sunlight streaming through the windows and Dash’s arm draped over my waist. For a moment, I just lay there, listening to his breathing and trying to convince myself this was real. I was actually in Athens with the man I loved. More importantly, with the man that loved me.

My phone buzzed on the nightstand. I reached for it slowly, doing my best not to wake him. I wanted to stay in bed with him for days. Forever.

A text from my father: How did it go? Did you tell him?

I smiled and typed back: I told him. He loves me too.

Three dots appeared immediately. That’s my girl. I’m proud of you, sweetheart.

I set the phone down and turned to find Dash watching me, his eyes still sleepy but warm.

“Morning,” he murmured, pulling me closer.

“Morning.” I kissed him softly. “What’s on your agenda today?”

“Absolutely nothing.” He nuzzled into my neck. “I cleared my schedule. We’re staying in Greece.”

I pulled back to look at him. “What? For how long?”

“As long as we want.” His grin was pure mischief. “I texted Adrian last night after you fell asleep. Told him I was taking some personal time.”