“What were you about to say before Tower walked up?”
It’s now or never, buddy.
Once they stepped onto that plane, things would change.
He tried to find the words. “That night after I gave you morphine, you told me you didn’t want this to end. You didn’t want this to mean goodbye.”
“I meant that. I still do. I… care about you, Dylan.”
He heard her hesitation. Had she been about to saylove?
He sat beside her. “What you don’t remember is my answer. I said that I didn’t want it to end, either.”
“You did?”
“Yeah, but you were high as a kite and exhausted. I’m not surprised you don’t remember. In fact, I was counting on that.”
“Chicken.”
It was the truth.
“I’m scared to death, Gabi. I don’t know how it could work with the two of us living so far apart, but I can’t stand the idea of not seeing you again. I’m not ready for any commitments. I don’t know that I ever will be. But I want you in my life. I know that’s unfair, but is it enough for you for now?”
She took his hand. “Yes.”
And because he couldn’t help himself, he drew her close and kissed her.
* * *
Gabriela had never flownin a private jet before. Comfortable seats. Wet bar. Huge TV screen on one wall. PS4. Restrooms. A conference room. She tried to hide her surprise. “This is … acceptable.”
Dylan wasn’t fooled. “It’s the only way to fly. Can I get you a drink?”
“What do you have?”
Dylan walked to the bar, opened the refrigerator. “There’s beer, water, champagne, ginger ale, Coke, some fancy flavored seltzer.”
“Champagne sounds perfect. Shouldn’t we be celebrating?”
They were going home—alive and safe.
Then why are you feeling so down?
Dylan.
She didn’t know when she’d see him again.
Dylan popped the cork, poured them each a glass, calling to Tower, who was up talking to the pilot. “Hey, Tower, want some champagne?”
“No, thanks.”
“Stupid question.” Dylan sat beside her. “Cheers.”
“Cheers.” She sipped, the bright taste tickling her tongue.
Dylan lowered his voice. “I need to get your cell phone number.”
“I don’t have a cell phone or an email account or any of that.”