Security (28 page)

“I know it’s a shock, but, to be honest, having you appear back from the dead has to be worse, well, more of a surprise, you know, and…I don’t know how you feel about having more children because of Marie, but…”Autumn began, pulling at her fingers.

Nathan took her hands in his. “Will you both have me back?” he asked.

“Yes!” Autumn squealed and leaped up into his arms.

He looked at her, those gold-flecked eyes no longer harsh, but soft and full of love and desire for her.

“Will you both have dinner with me?” Nathan asked, lifting up his leg and waving his foot about.

Autumn let out a laugh. “What are you wearing?” she exclaimed.

“Listen, where I come from, this is a formal shoe. I remember someone telling me once I needed a formal shoe to eat here.”

She went on tip-toes and kissed him. He stroked her hair with his hands.

“I can’t do it. Take them off…please…take them off, they’re terrible!” Autumn exclaimed.

“Lose the dress.”

“Nathan!”

“That’s the deal. Take it or leave it.”

She slowly traced her finger along his jaw and waited, waited for what was coming next.

He lowered his head, his lips meeting hers, and all the memories she’d had to evoke of their precious moments together came alive again—just like he had.