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Besides, who knows how everything will be between us in the cold light of day? Our temporary truce from last night could be over.
After our time together, after the way he opened up to me more last night, it’s hard to think that we could go back to the animosity of before. I, for one, feel like we buried a lot of demons.
It doesn’t hurt that he acknowledged how hard I’ve worked for everything I’ve had.
“Samantha,” his deep, low voice whispering my name sets my heart to fluttering. “Are you awake?”
I swallow hard. “Yeah.”
“Could you do me a favor?”
“What is it?”
He chuckles, and my pulse speeds up even more. “I should’ve known better than to ask you to do something without spelling out the specifics first.”
“I’m still waiting.”
He sighs, but it isn't long-suffering, like the ones I’m used to him giving. It’s easier. More playful. Maybe the truce from last night will be more long-lasting.
And maybe—just maybe—it’s up to me to decide whether or not it lasts forever.
For the first time, I realize his arm is wrapped around my waist. As if he’s been protecting me all night. It’s a sweet thought that makes my throat ache. Instead of waiting for him to tell me what he wants, I turn to face him.
In the pale light, I see his formerly well-groomed light beard is looking a little worse for the wear. But his eyes are bright and his lips curve up into a half grin upon seeing me. He’s never looked better.
“Well?” I ask, my voice cracking ever so slightly, betraying my attempt to play coy. “You have my attention now.”
“Do I?”
I return his grin. “You have my undivided attention.”
“Good.” His hand strokes my back gently, and goosebumps pop up on my arms. Then he slides his arm out from around me, leaving me cold and oddly naked. “Because there’s something I’ve been wanting to do. Before we get out of here and have to face the real world.”
“What’s that?”
“First things first.” He cups my cheek and my breath quickens. “Are you awake?”
I nod.
“And clear-headed?”
I rub my lips together. “Yes.”
“Good.” His thumb slides along the curve of my jaw making my heart pound faster. “Because I want both of us to remember this.”
He leans forward, and I move instinctively toward him. We’ve been tip-toeing around doing this all night. Heck, we’ve probably been dancing around this since the first time we debated in Model UN or put up our campaign posters during the student election.
It’s like this has been inevitable all along. I can’t think of a reason to stop. At least not a good enough reason.
When our lips are about to touch, Zack pauses. He closes his eyes. “Samantha?”
“Yes?”
“If you don’t want me to kiss you, I need you to tell me now.”
“Okay.” I moisten my lips. “Zack?”
“Yes?”
