the peak during these quiet mornings was almost as important as reaching the summit. Still, the sensations and emotions at the top of that path overwhelmed him. He dropped to his side and caught his breath, pulling Bekki closer to him. She kissed his chest and whispered, “I love this time of the day.”
He hummed his agreement. “I was just thinking that.”
“I like waking up with you.” Bekki played with the hair on his chest.
“I like you. Period.” He kissed her forehead.
She tipped her head back. “It’s nice, isn’t it?”
“What’s that?”
“Being a part of a couple.” She gave a little shrug. “I mean, I’ve dated, but it never felt like this.”
“What we have is different. I agree.” Killian ran his fingers down the divot of her back.
Bekki’s eyebrow raised. “Different good.”
He huffed a laugh. “Most assuredly. Very good.”
“Are you heading over to Xander’s?”
“I have to. Which means we need to get ready.”
She shook her head. “From the sound of it, Xander was wanting some brother time. Sorry, couldn’t not hear what was being said.”
“No need to apologize. I don’t have anything to hide from you, but yeah, we need to go.” He glanced down at her.
She arched her back so she could see him better and pointed a finger at him. “Stop it. I can see it in your eyes. I am a grown-ass woman; I can be left alone for a couple hours without the world falling apart.”
He got it, he did. She was an adult, but he’d made assurances to her father. “I have no doubt you can take care of yourself, but I made your dad a promise. One I don’t intend to break.”
She stared at him for a long time before she spoke. “Integrity is your thing, isn’t it?”
“It should be everyone’s, but yes, saying what you mean and doing what you say is important.” He reached over and pushed a stray piece of dark brown hair behind her ear.
She slid her hand over his and smiled. “I’ll call Blay and see if he is off. If he is, he can pick up Caitlyn and they can come over. Blay has a concealed carry and he knows what is going on, so we don’t need to worry if he’s here. Besides, I need some girl time, and I know Blay will fall in love with Duke. We can spend the day by the water out of your guys’ way.”
That was an idea he could live with, although as soon as Bekki confirmed with Blay and Caitlyn, he was going to text her father and let him know what was happening. After all, he’d given his word.
Caitlyn laughed at Duke’s antics as Blay played with him. The dog was in heaven, chasing Blay and being chased. Bekki wrapped her arms around her legs and dropped her chin to her knees, tipping her head a bit to look at her best friend. “So, how have you been?”
Caitlyn shrugged. “Okay, although I’ve been relegated to running on a treadmill at that little gym around the corner from the Celtic Cock. Sean and Kyle found out I went running in the park alone and about had a whole herd of cattle. So, until you’re sprung from protective custody, I’m officially a gym bunny.” Caitlyn grimaced and they both broke into laughter.
“My only form of exercise is playing with Duke.” Bekki watched as Blay launched the ball and Duke galloped after it.
“I have a feeling that’s not your only form of exercise.” Caitlyn stared at her. “You’re in love, aren’t you?”
Bekki chuckled and shrugged. “I’m in deep like, for sure. Is it love? I’m not sure. It’s too early to tell yet, but he’s amazing.”
“Yeah, everywhere?” Caitlyn raised her eyebrows comically.
Bekki shook her head, but the smile that she couldn’t hide betrayed her true answer. “Let’s just say Killian is amazing at everything.”
“See, I knew it!” Caitlyn sighed and stared at Blay and Duke. “Do you think…”
Bekki turned her attention to her friend. That tone was one she knew. Caitlyn had turned from comical to serious in a heartbeat. “What?”
Caitlyn’s lips pressed together. “Is there something wrong with me? I mean, every guy I like ends up either putting me squarely in the friend zone or being a jerk.” She turned and stared at Bekki. Tears misted her expressive eyes.
Bekki wrapped her arm around Caitlyn and sighed. “There is the perfect guy out there for you. Someone who will treat you the way Killian treats me. You’re meant for someone special.