Page 15 of Absinthe and Heart

“But didn’t Steven know it was you? Did you get caught? Also, I don’t remember anyone by that name going to school with us.”

“It’s probably not his real name, but that’s not the point.”

“Don’t mess with Marcus,” I say in awe.

“That’s right. I get what I want.”

The last part is said over his shoulder, staring down at me with such an intense look of desire I almost drop to my knees. Having his full attention on me is intoxicating, like a drug.

“I’ve been in love with you since the moment they took that picture, you know.”

At his words, I completely break. Tears choke me and brim on my eyelids. I nod, remembering the moment I felt the same way.

“You were the new girl at school, and everyone was talking about you. Someone mentioned you were going to the bonfire, so I got Lyla to cover my shift at Empire so I could meet you.”

I laugh, “You stood on the other side of the fire just staring at me like a total weirdo.”

“I had game back then,too. I just lost my cool around you. You’re intimidating, Grace.”

I shake my head, not agreeing with him but loving the honesty in his eyes. It reaffirms what I’ve always known and have been too stubborn to admit. I’m not fighting this happiness anymore. Life is too short.

“I love you. Maybe it happened that night, maybe later, but I fell madly, deeply, and permanently in love with you, and I’m so sorry I’ve been pushing you away. Holding you at arm’s length.”

Marcus takes me in his arms, and there I stay, feeling safe, warm, and home. Like everything is finally going to be ok. He kisses the top of my head. Seconds later, my cheek and trails down to my lips, where he takes them with his.