“That’s what I said,” I say, rolling my eyes.
He shakes his head, his grin growing. “No, you didn’t.”
“Well, it was close enough. What happened tohoneyanyway?”
“What do you mean?”
“You’ve called me that multiple times.”
Jasper chuckles. “I haven’t even noticed, but I guess these nicknames come naturally with you. And after last night, I think honey is a suitable nickname—you taste like it.”
I shake my head, still smiling. “That got you some brownie points.”
“Talking about brownies, we need to get some sustenance, but first…” he tells me, closing the few feet between us to kiss me. “One kiss for my muru.”
* * *
After dinner, we cuddle in bed. Jasper watches game tape, and I read the paperback I packed for the trip. I’m finally getting to the chapter where slow burn starts to sizzle when my phone buzzes. Looking at the screen, I see a new message from my best friend Lottie.
Lottie
I’m back from my phoneless, internetless holiday celebrations with Nonna.
How’s Finland? I miss you.
Vivian
I miss you too! Finland has been so good to me. There are like a million things I want to share with you.
Lottie
Exciting! Tell me everything!
Vivian
Well, remember the guy from the JFK airport lounge?
Lottie
The hot one?
Vivian
Yeah. He’s sitting right next to me…in bed *flirty emoji*
Lottie
OMG WHAT. Vivian!
Don’t leave me hanging, WHO IS HE? Give me all the deets.
Vivian
He’s Finnish, but lives in New York. AND he plays hockey.
Look, he’s famous and we’re just…having fun, but you have to promise to not tell anyone
Lottie
