AllFreeNovel
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She’s out of control, but I feel her frustration. We’re both caught up in this perfect storm, and it’s only a matter of time before the sneaking around grows tiresome, and we crave normality.
“I have an idea.” I grab her hand forcefully. “Let’s go.”
“Where?” she questions, annoyed at the way I grip her hand tight, refusing to let go. “And we haven’t finished talking.”
With her hand still in mine, I drag her from the apartment, yanking our coats from the coat rack, and run out onto the street. The cold night air is a slap in the face, unrelenting with its chill.
The sound of horns and sirens greet us as usual. Tonight, out of all nights, people are generally less patient on the streets. If we move quickly, we just might make it before midnight, only if the crowds work in our favor.
It’s not uncommon for the city to be chaotic on New Year’s Eve, but I’ve been here so often to learn a few tricks. Darting in and out of the crowds congregating at Times Square, I find us a spot to stand still.
“Will, it’s so crowded,” Amelia yells over the noise. “Why are we here?”
I pull her into me, tilting my head to whisper in her ear. “It’s almost midnight, and this is the busiest place in the world. Everyone can see us at this moment. No hiding, it’s just you and me, baby.”
Slowly, she pulls away as her mouth curves to a smile. With her hands around my neck, the crowd begins to countdown as we chant along with them.
“Five, four, three, two, one…”
The ball drops as everyone shouts, “Happy New Year.” A burst of light falls all around us, loud music playing. Surrounding us, people hug and kiss, but all I can do is stare into the eyes of this beautiful woman I want to call mine.
Forever.
And then, in front of thousands of people, and quite possibly the world via the lens, we passionately kiss for everyone to see. Our tongues roll softly, perfectly in sync, and as we both pull away, my heart is bursting with happiness to be able to share this moment with her.
“Last night, I know I was drunk, but I meant what I said.”
“Amelia,” I say softly. “Please don’t feel like you need to justify drunk talk.”
“No, Will. Please just let me say it, here, in front of the world.”
I stare into her eyes, and with this stare, I can almost see her bare her soul. All her walls have broken down, and in the reflection, all I see is the two of us.
“I’m in love with you. You don’t need to say anything. In fact, it would be easier if you don’t.”
“I don’t know what to say,” I admit, scared to process the very thought.
“Say nothing, please. It was just something I need to do.”
I don’t say anything, unsure of how much this will change us. Instead, I hold onto her tight, then follow with cupping her chin as I lay another kiss on her lips.
We walk together, holding hands, back to my building.
Inside the apartment, the air is warm unlike the harsh cold outside. I waste no time and strip her naked, kissing her shoulder before I hesitate.
My eyes are drawn to every curve, to how perfect she is in my bed, and how this is how I always want it to be. As I stare into her eyes, my whole life flashes before me. Our bond started well before she stepped into my office. It started only minutes after she entered this world.
And in so many ways, that’s what terrifies me the most—she’s always been the one and may possibly only ever be the one.
I can’t see a future without her in it.
And to even think of one existing without her in my arms sets a knife-wielding pain like a dagger straight into my heart.
“Amelia,” I breathe, caressing her cheek while watching her emerald-green eyes gaze back at me with hope.
“Yes?”
Leaning forward, my lips brush against hers, soft and gentle, intended to make our hearts beat in sync to this memorable moment. I want it to be more than just words. It’s the beginning of something beautiful, something I never knew I wanted but can’t live without.
