“Are you sure they know? You should’ve seen the look on Jason’s face when you made fun of his painting. He worked really hard on it and was nervous about even showing it to you. I don’t know that he’ll show you another one.”

“Seriously? I was just kidding. I actually really liked it. I think you’re just seeing things that aren’t there.”

I turned away and faced the wall, focusing on the chipped paint in the corner. He tugged me against him and I couldn’t help the small tingle at how perfectly our bodies aligned. I wiggled even closer and smiled as I felt his reaction.

“Still . . . it couldn’t hurt to call him. Maybe say something like ‘You know I was just teasing you, right?’”

“Mmm-hmm.” He nuzzled my ear and moved his hand past my stomach.

“Promise? Maybe this after– . . .” I lost my train of thought as we joined. His low, throaty laugh sent shivers down my spine though every other part of my body heated.

“I promise. And just in case you can’t tell . . . I love you, too.”