“Do you think we can we still be real friends?”

His answer was a stare that made her stomach flip. “What if told you that I don’t want to fake break up?”

“Oh, Flynn,” she quipped, trying to lighten his mood, because did he realize what he was saying here? “Everyone knows fake long-distance relationships are tough.”

“No, Iris, I mean I want to end this stupid charade right now.”

“Flynn, we can’t break up yet. We’re having dinner with your ex-wife and we still have kayaking with my boss tomorrow and...” Her words trailed off as he stepped closer.

Iris froze, her pulse ratcheting up, rocketing into overdrive. Flynn stood before her, strong arms settling on either side of her. His face was only inches from hers. There was no mistaking he was going to kiss her and Iris knew that if he did, this time, he’d claim her heart forever.