Page 72 of A New Chapter

“I think you’ve had enough excitement for one night,” Zack said and ruffled Gracie’s hair.

“But Daaaad…”

Emma crouched down and laid her hands on Gracie’s shoulders. “Your dad’s right, Gracie. You need to go home and rest, but how about if I come over and visit you tomorrow?”

“Ok,” she said and then popped the sucker back into her mouth.

After Zack tucked Gracie into the car, he walked Emma around to the opposite side of the Range Rover, where she had parked. Emma couldn’t help it. She flung her arms around his neck and hugged him tight. Zack’s arms went around her waist willingly.

“I’m so glad she’s ok,” Emma whispered against his chest.

“Me too,” he said softly. “Thanks for being here.”

“Thank you for not being mad that I came.”

Zack chuckled. “Why would I be mad? I love being with you, Em.”

She lifted her head, and they exchanged a look that acknowledged just how close those words were to “I love you.”

“I love being with you too,” she said. Baby steps.

“I should get Gracie home.” He gave her a brief kiss on the cheek and broke their hold.

Emma waved while they drove away, and she couldn’t help but wish that she were going home with them.