"I'm thinking that six days isn't that long," I lie smoothly. "And that modern technology makes staying in touch easier than ever."
He searches my face, clearly not buying my casual response. "You sure?"
"Positive. I know you'll call me." I rise up on my toes and kiss him, hoping he can't feel the uncertainty underneath my smile. "Besides, I'll be busy supervising all my hunky contractors."
I gesture toward where Bear is currently demonstrating proper lifting technique to the kennel delivery guys, his massive chest making the others look like children.
"That's not funny," Ryder mutters, eyeing Bear like he's sizing him up.
"What about Brad?" I continue teasingly. "I bet he has fascinating stories about his electrical adventures. Maybe I should invite him for coffee..."
"Mia Harper, you are evil."
"Maybe a little." I steal another kiss, tasting the mixture of mint and anxiety on his lips. "But you love me anyway."
"I do love you. So damn much." His arms tighten around me. "Which is why I need you to promise me something."
"What?"
"Promise me you'll call if you need anything. Even if it's just to hear my voice. Even if it's three in the morning and you can't sleep. Even if Gandalf stages another jailbreak and you need someone to talk you down from committing goat murder."
Despite my inner turmoil, I laugh. "I promise."
"And promise me you won't let your brain convince you that this changes anything between us."
Too late for that.
"Ryder—"
"I mean it, Mia. I know how your mind works. I know you're already catastrophizing, imagining worst-case scenarios where I fall in love with life on the road and forget about you."
He knows me too well. Always has.
"The thought may have crossed my mind," I admit quietly.
"Then let me cross it right back out." He leans his forehead against mine, his eyes intense and serious. "There is nowhere I'd rather be than right here, in this chaotic, goat-infested shelter, with you. Six days, six weeks, six months. It doesn't matter. You're my home now, Mia. But this is my job."
The sincerity in his voice makes my throat tight with emotion.
I want to believe him. God, how I want to believe him.
"Okay," I whisper.
"Okay?"
"Okay. I believe you. And I'll miss you terribly, but I'll be here when you get back."
"Good. Because I've gotta go. Mom is making dinner and Dad would never forgive me if I didn't visit before a road trip. Reckon you can leave these guys to it and join us?"
A loud crash from the direction of the supply closet practically answers for me.
"I don't think so…" I sigh regretfully. "That sounds like my cue to go deal with Gandalf before he destroys what's left of my supplies. Maybe save me a lemon muffin just in case?"
"Of course, babe."
He leans down, kisses me, and disappears through the door.
Yeah. I can do this… six days. That's all.
