| |
JOEL
ONE YEAR LATER
––––––––
I LOVE MY LIFE.
After a hectic twelve months, Kenzie and I are finally settled into our new home in my hometown, and we can ditch long-distance for good. Sure, it made for some sexy late-night phone calls, but I much prefer having my girl within kissing distance.
“Is that the last box?” Kenzie points to the plastic container I sit on the kitchen counter as she continues organizing our cabinets with dividers and labels—my little control queen putting her professional talents to work.
“Yep, we’re officially moved in.”
“Thank God. And you, your brother, and your father for hauling everything inside.” She carefully unwraps a set of plates before moving onto matching bowls. “You know, your mom and I gladly would’ve helped.”
“I know, but we had it covered.” Easing behind her, I squeeze her waist, adoring the way her body cushions me in softness. The nape of her neck draws my attention, tiny wisps of hair escaping her ponytail, and my lips unerringly land on the delicate column. “Besides, it’s only fair when you’re the one who moved across the country.”
We talked then fought then talked some more about who should move. I was more than willing to do whatever was necessary to be near her, but Kenzie defended her stance and won like a debate champion. She could run her business from anywhere; it wasn’t tied to one location. One of her trusted employees would be promoted to care for the clients they had locally while Kenzie would network to build a second list of clients in her new home.
“You don’t owe me for that. I’m happy to be here with you and your family. I know what your family’s practice means to you. You love it, and I love you. So, the decision was simple.”
Nipping at her ear, I whisper, “Say it again.”
“I love you.”
I’ll never tire of hearing those three words from her pretty lips. Each time is a gift, especially when I know how difficult it was for her to let go and open herself to me—to give up control.
“Love you, too, buttercup... Why don’t you forget organizing the kitchen, and I’ll show you just how much?”
“Where?” Kenzie chuckles, escaping my hold. “Our bed isn’t set up yet.”
“Wherever I catch you.” I grin and brace as if at a starting line. “You’ve got five seconds. One, two...”
A squeak of excitement pierces the air, and she takes off, her laughter fading as she gets further away. Yeah, my girl’s ready to play, I think smugly.
“Five!” I shout.
Let the games begin.