“I guess I’m not the only one who’s a bit of a train wreck.” Mindy reached up and ran her fingers through Jarrod’s hair.

The simple action made his breath catch in his throat. He’d forgotten how good it felt to have someone’s fingers twist in his hair.

“Jarrod, I want you to know that I’m grateful—for everything. You’ve done so much for me and Anya. And I promise, no matter what happens, just as you have saved us from getting hurt, I will do my best to keep from hurting you.”

Just when he had thought he couldn’t feel any more at odds with himself, she had to go and say something so tremendously sweet, and soul crushing.

A flood of thoughts of morality and desire moved through him, and in its wake were dreams of what could be.

He stood up and wrapped her in his arms. This woman, this beautiful person, could be his future. She could be his everything.

He pressed his lips against hers.