Part 279 (1/2)

”Merry Christmas.”

”How long can you stay?”

”A couple of days.” He glanced over toward the stove. ”What's that

noise?”

”Oh, my cookies.” She dashed over to turn off the timer and rescue them.

”I was thinking of you when I made these. And wis.h.i.+ng you weren't so

far away.” Turning, tray in hand, she looked at him. ”I'll go back with

you if you want.”

”You know I want.” He ran a hand down her braid. ”I also know that you

need time with your family. I'll be waiting for you when you get home.”

”I love you.” The words went through her heart to her mind so quickly it

stunned her. The tray clattered as she dropped it on the rangetop.

”Say it again.”

His eyes were so dark and intense she lifted a hand to his cheek to

soothe. ”I love you, Michael. I'm sorry it's taken me so long to get

it out.”

Saying nothing, he pulled her close and held her. For a moment,

everything he'd ever wanted was within the circle of his arms.

”I knew when I saw you in New York, at my showing. As soon as I saw

you, I knew.” With a combination of relief and pleasure she turned her

face into his throat. ”It scared me. It seems I've been scared for

years. Then when you walked in the door just now, it all fell into

place.”

”You won't be able to shake me off now.”

”Good.” She tilted her head up to his. ”How about a cookie?”

HE MADE EXCUSES. Michael didn't enjoy lying to Emma, but he felt it