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We didn’t talk nearly enough about what he’s missed the past ten years, and once we do, it’ll change everything.
“I’ll get with Garrett to get time off within the next few weeks. Do you want me to book a hotel?”
“Oh, um...no. Serena would love for you to stay with us.”
And so would I.
He nods. “Okay. Will you text me when you get home so I know you made it safely?”
I smile. “Of course.”
When he reaches for his door handle and jumps out, I do the same. As I wait for him to come around, butterflies in my stomach have me ready to throw up. I hated saying goodbye to him ten years ago, and I hate it just as much today.
Ayden approaches and swarms me in a hug. His thick arms envelop my body and press me to his chest as if I were a puzzle piece made to fit perfectly into his. I wrap mine around his waist, grasping tightly to his T-shirt, and then inhale his cologne. My breath catches when he leans down and presses his lips to my forehead, placing a soft, subtle kiss there. For a moment, I think about lifting my head so my mouth collides with his, but then he steps away too quickly, and my moment to decide dissipates.
“Have a safe flight, Laney.” He opens my door for me and waits until I’m buckled in before closing it. Then he flashes a boyish smile and gives me a gentle wave before walking back to his truck.
The heaviness in my chest doesn’t fade until long after I’m on my flight. The anticipation of seeing Serena floods my veins. The only time we’ve spent a night apart is when she’s had sleepovers, but she was only five minutes away. Being states apart spiked my anxiety even though I knew she was in good hands.
As soon as the plane lands in Houston, I turn on my phone and check my messages.
Ayden
I was being a gentleman this time, but when I see you next, I might not have the willpower to keep my lips off yours. I hope you have a good flight.
My heart lodges in my throat as I reread his message for the fifth time. How can he just shoot out these one-liners and think they won’t affect me? How am I even supposed to respond?
How do I even begin to comprehend that my feelings for him never faded? Though we’re different people now with very different lives, I haven’t forgotten what his touches feel like.
Laney
I just landed. Flight went great.
Ayden
Glad to hear it. Drive safe back home :)
Laney
How is it you’re even more charming now than you were back in high school?
Ayden
Aw, you think I’m charming, do ya?
I roll my eyes.
Laney
You know you are.
If we were being honest, that’s what got me pregnant in the first place. We couldn’t keep our hands off each other.
Ayden
I can promise that it’s only ever been for you. No one else.
The heart that was in my throat moments ago sinks to the pit of my stomach. I’m battling whether to guard my heart or allow myself to open it back up to the man who tore it apart before.Am I strong enough to give Ayden another chance?
