“You don’t think I need to lose weight?”
“No, I love the way you look. You’rebeautiful. You know your body and how it works for you.”
I peer up at him, trying to decipher whathe’s saying. I know he loves me, for me, and that he’s telling me the truth.“Okay,” I breathe out. “Will you remind me of that a few more times, especiallywhile my mother is here.”
Cole wraps his arms around my back,caressing it and then lets them settle on my butt, squeezing it lightly. “Iwill tell you over and over, baby. And whenever you want to workout, just letme know.” He winks.
I smack him lightly on the chest. “Cole.”
“To the point of exhaustion.”
I tug on his tie. “Let’s start now.” Andtry to get him to move back to the bed.
“Cookie.”
“Yeah, yeah.”
“Come on. Your family’s waiting for youto take them shopping. Which is a bit funny, since you don’t like to shop.”
“Ugh—don’t I know it.”
Downstairs, everyone’s already waiting inthe Escalades. Luke and Keaton are waiting just inside the doors for us.
“Everyone’s ready?” I ask Luke.
“Yes.”
“And did they tell you where they wantedto go?”
“The outlet mall at the south end of thestrip. Does that sound right?”
“I guess. Whatever they want.” I turn toCole. “I’m not sure how long we’ll be. Hopefully not too long if Annie and mygrandma complain about all the walking. You’re going to be late tonight, aren’tyou?”
Cole wraps me in his arms. “Not too.Let’s go out. Show the ladies a good time. There’s a dinner club my fatherreally likes. I’ll call and see if I can get us reservations.”
“Okay, what time should we be ready?”
“Is nine too late?”
“No, that works for me.” I start to walkoutside, but Cole grabs me, twirling me to face him, crushing his lips to mine.The kiss is beautiful and passionate, and my body warms with lust and love. Hetilts me back and my fingers clench the back of Cole’s suit coat as his tonguedelves deeper into my mouth. He breaks the kiss, nipping my bottom lip andplacing a few more gentle kisses over my mouth.
He stands me back up, keeping us close.“Kate, remember I love you and that’s what matters.”
I just nod, still trying to come downfrom that kiss.
“You have your credit cards, and youdon’t have a limit to what you can buy, so have fun.”
I nod again.
“No, baby,” he croons with a laugh.“Repeat my words.”
“Remember, you love me. Buy what I want.”
“Good girl, now go have fun.” He turns metowards the door and gives me a playful swat.
“Ooh, Mr. Holt,” I say with a sly smile.Luke opens the door for me, then follows me outside. “What, wait, sorry Luke,are you coming with us?”
“Yes.”
