Page 6 of Hearts Don't Lie
“Shh,” he said, shaking his head, placing his forefinger gently on her lips. “My father sent me into town for a new battery for his watch. I saw this in the jewelry store. It made me think of us. Our love.” His voice cracked. “You’re all I want, Mac. There is nothing more beautiful you can give me than yourself. I love you.”
She loosened the cord and shook the contents into her palm. It was a sterling silver necklace with a square pendant. Mac shifted it in the tendrils of light emanating from the candles and moon, seeking to see it better, then questioned Hardin with her eyes.
“It’s a thistle. Its meaning, that’s what got me.”
“It’s beautiful.”
“It’s made from an old wax seal.” He lifted the necklace from her palm and secured it around her neck with the lobster-claw clasp. “The card in the bag explains the symbolism better than I can, but basically it represents protection and remembrance. Also strength, which both of us are going to need during our separation,” Hardin said, kissing the back of her neck where the necklace rested. “And sweetness after challenges.” He cupped Mac’s chin and gently turned her to face him. His eyes pinned hers, then drifted to her lips before searching hers intensely and leaning forward. “Don’t forget about me. Or us and our love,” he said huskily, his voice dropping into a whisper. “It’s only four months. Our love will carry us through.”
The pendant nestled halfway between the hollow of her throat and her heart. She covered it with her hand and curved her other behind Hardin’s neck, sliding her fingers into his recently cut hair and pulling him to her.
“Thank you,” she breathed over his parted lips before kissing him deeply, her tongue sweeping the inside of his mouth. She broke the kiss to whisper, “I could never forget you. I will love you forever.”
“I love you, Mac.” Hardin lowered Mac down to the blanket and covered her with his body. “Forever,” he whispered into her ear.
