And Yet, Anything Real, Anything Strong, Was

He Gave Her A Quick, Casual Kiss On The Cheek First. Then Came The Hug, And It Was The Hug That Always Made Laurel’s Heart Mush. Serious Grip, Cheek To The Hair, Eyes Closed, Just A Little Sway. Del’s Hugs Mattered, She Thought, And Made Him Impossible To Resist.

Better, Cilla Thought, To Be Alone On A Quiet Night Than To Be Alone In A Crowd. Much Better.

“i'm Not Going Anywhere.” Gently, He Stroked Her Back, Cradled Her Head. Was There Anything More Astounding Or More Frightening To A Man, He Wondered, Than A Strong Woman In Tears? “i've Been Right Here All Along. I Love You, Eve, Almost More Than I Can Stand.” “i Need You. I Can't Help It. I Don't Want To.” “i Know. He Eased Back, Tucking A Hand Under Her Chin To Lift Her Face To His. “we’re Going To Have To Deal With It.” He Kissed One Wet Cheek, Then The Other. “i Really Can’t Do Without You.“

Dinner's In One Hour. If You're Not Back, Sitting At The Table, I'll Beat You All Unconscious With A Spatula.

It Shouldn't Make You Sad To Know You're Loved, Grayson." But It Did. It Made Him Sad, And Panicked, And For Just A Moment, Wishful.