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He silenced her with a kiss.
Mia went stock-still, and for a moment he feared he’d crossed a line he shouldn’t have. But dammit, he needed to do something to show her just how much this weekend had meant to him. How much her forgiveness and hospitality had meant to him. Even as an author, he knew sometimes words simply weren’t enough.
Her hand rose to cup his cheek, and Alex nearly toppled over with relief. Only then could he relax and enjoy their first kiss. Her lips felt like Heaven, so soft and full. So…right. Alex circled his arms around her waist, savoring her touch, her warmth.
“Forgive me,” he said. “I’ve been dying to do that for about seventeen years now.”
Mia snorted softly, her gaze finding his in the dark. “Sure you have.”
She didn’t believe him. No matter. In time he would show her exactly how much she’d meant to him all those years ago, and how much she still did.
“But thank you,” she said.
“For the kiss? Anytime. Seriously.”
Mia laughed softly. “No, not for the kiss, though thanks for that, too. I meant for being such a good sport tonight—I know not everyone makes such a big production out of decorating a silly tree. Sorry that we kept you from working on your book.”
“Are you kidding me? This was the most pre-Christmas fun I’ve had since our gift-wrapping fundraiser back in college.”
Mia’s smile broadened. He kissed her softly.
“Besides, writing is something I do to keep away the lonely. You and Brooklyn made sure I felt anything but that today.”
“I’m glad. Honestly, I wasn’t sure how this was going to go. She’s been kinda moody lately, frustrated with her father and struggling with chemistry. Today was the happiest I’ve seen her in a while.”
A shiver rattled Mia, and Alex pulled her closer, hoping he had enough body heat for the both of them. He’d been roasting inside but hadn’t brought it up, too busy having fun to mention it. Now he was glad for the warmth, hoping it might extend their alone time a few more minutes.
“Can I ask you something?”
Her eyes grew wary. “Maybe.”
“Are you seeing anyone?”
Mia smirked. “I should hope not, since I just kissed you.”
“Fair enough.” That answer was as good an excuse as any to steal another kiss. “Any reason in particular?”
“That I’m not seeing anyone?” One shoulder lifted and fell, her gaze shifting to his chest. “I just…don’t want to land in another dud relationship, you know? Everyone thinks I need to hurry up and get back out there, but why rush into more potential heartbreak?”
Alex nodded. He’d been in the same place emotionally once upon a time. His marriage to Caroline had seemed like a good match at first, especially after finding out she hadn’t wanted kids either. Unfortunately, not too long after handing her his heart, he’d come to realize they were both more married to their careers than one another. Their parting had been amicable, but he’d been in no hurry to try again. Nor had any relationship after her really stuck. Perhaps it was because the woman in his arms had been his gold standard all along.
“Oh yes. Definitely better to just sneak kisses by trash cans with random strangers.”
Mia gave his arm a swat. “You’re not a stranger!”
“Correction: better to sneak kisses by trash cans with random past acquaintances.”
“You’re a nutcase,” Mia said, laughing softly.
“A nutcase who would love to see you again next time he’s passing through the area if you’d be open to it.”
He held his breath, watched her consider the idea. Maybe it would work out, maybe it wouldn’t, but he was beginning to think he’d go mad if they didn’t give it a try. After a moment, her gaze found his once again.
“I’d like that.”
A wave of relief mingled with excitement washed over him, and Alex drew her into a tight hug. “Me, too. I’ve missed you, Mia. More than you know.”
She snuggled closer, her cheek resting on his chest. “Oh, Alex, look!”
