Page 43 of The Tryst List
Peter nods, his expression thoughtful. “Yeah. Of course.” He kisses me tenderly. “I get it. I don’t want anything to overshadow us getting to know each other. For me, it’s more about the moments we share.”
“Exactly.” I breathe a sigh of relief. “I want us to live in the present, explore things naturally.”
He reaches out, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. “So you’re open to a Vegas wedding this weekend?”
“Why wait? Let’s drive to Sea-Tac after we’re rescued tomorrow.” I laugh.
He combs his fingers through my tangled hair. “In all seriousness, don’t worry, baby. We’ll take each day as it comes. No pressure, no overthinking. Oh…FYI, I’m making my own list…”
“Your own Tryst List? Care to give me a preview?” I smirk.
Peter pulls me down. “Nope. You'll know when we do it. I like to keep things interesting.”
Warmth spreads through me. It’s comforting to know we’re on the same page, this rekindled flame won’t be reduced to a series of checkmarks. The Tryst List pales in comparison to the genuine connection we’re rediscovering.
Our eyes grow sleepy. Peter’s arm slackens as he drifts off.
In these quiet, early-morning hours, sleep overtakes me. I find myself looking forward to spending more time with Peter.
Having unexpected and unplanned moments to share.
Is where the real magic lies.
Chapter seventeen
Peter
The Next Morning
The early-morning light casts a serene glow over the marina.
Seattle is always beautiful, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen the sun rise over the city at this hour. Hues of pink, yellow, and orange illuminate the downtown buildings. It’s the perfect ending to the perfect night.
I got up early. Vessel Assist brought enough fuel for us to get back into Kingston where I topped up and we headed home as it began to get light.
Jordan helps me dock. We’ve already packed up the soiled blankets for the laundry and she cleaned up the cabin while I navigated. I’m reluctant to say goodbye, but I don’t want to come on too strong and spook her. I may have said I’d marry her in jest, but there’s some truth in my intentions. If I thought she’d be down, the flight would have already been booked.
Plus, I’m not completely sure, but there seems to be a subtle shift in Jordan’s demeanor. Perhaps the intimacy of our night of being stranded is giving way to the reality of what lies ahead for us. I watch her closely, trying to gauge her thoughts.
“Hey, how about we grab some breakfast?” I suggest, hoping to extend my time with her, even if it’s for an hour or two. “It’s still early. There’s a couple of great spots at Pike Place Market.”
Jordan smiles, but it doesn’t quite reach her eyes like it did last night. “Thanks, Peter, but I’m gonna head home. I have a lot of things to catch up on before I’m back in the shop tomorrow.”
I try to hide my disappointment, badly. “Sure, I understand. Maybe we can plan something for later in the week?”
She hesitates, a waft of uncertainty crosses her face. “Yeah, maybe. Let’s see how it goes.”
Together, we walk up to our cars but don’t hold hands or have any physical contact. Fuck, this is awkward. I rack my brain for ways to keep our rapport intact. The intensity of last night was undeniable. The sex would be incredible under any circumstances, but the fusion of our souls made it extraordinary.
At least, for me.
This morning there's a cautiousness that didn't exist a few hours ago. I certainly don’t want this experience to end the way Vegas did. I've got to step up.
We’re at her car. “Last night was special, Jordan. I haven’t felt so happy in… Well, ever.”
“Yeah…” She pauses, a complex mix of emotions flash in her eyes. “It’s a lot to process, you know?”
I nod, understanding her need for space, yet not willing to let her slip away too easily. “Take all the time you need. Just know, I want more of this with you. I’m not going anywhere.”