Baxter moves toward the study and I follow him. Inside we find Barrett sitting at his desk. Baxter saunters over to Barrett for some affection before settling into his bed near the fireplace. When I push the door the rest of the way open, his eyes find me in the doorway.

“Hey,” he says, his voice deep and raspy. Just that one syllable makes my stomach flutter.

“Hey,” I say, taking in the scene. His computer is off, no cell phone in sight, just a glass of scotch sitting on his desk. I glance over at my desk. Since I officially moved in, Barrett rearranged his office to fit a desk for me. I insisted I’d use it for work, but I’ve yet to sit at it. Instead, it’s piled high with manuscripts and trade paperbacks that I’ve found at the used bookstore we frequent on weekends.

I edge in between him and the desk, his hands move to squeeze my hips.

“Sorry I’m late. Shopping with Emma is fun, but time consuming.”

“It’s fine,” he says, pressing his lips softly to mine. The taste of him, a mix of scotch and spice and maleness that is distinctly Barrett, melts in my mouth.

MARRY

The WordIt word today flashes behind my closed eyes. Thinking about it again sends a rush of excitement through my body.

I had been surprised. At first, I thought it was MERRY for the upcoming holiday, but one incorrect letter had proven me wrong.

MARRY

I’ve been reminding myself all day that while Barrett’s company owns WordIt now, he’s not directly in charge of the words. And, since he confessed to purchasing the app and using it for his benefit where I was concerned, he has refrained from interfering with my favorite word game.

We’ve talked about it. Marriage, that is. But it’s always been something we’ve said would be further in the future. Not four months after we officially started dating.

Barrett wraps his arms around me and I feel content.

With the snow falling outside and the fireplace casting a warm glow against every surface of the room, I’m struggling to be excited about going out tonight. I could stay here in this cozy space kissing Barrett, among other things, all night. But JoAnna is having a holiday party and it would be frowned upon if we didn’t attend.

Barrett smiles. “I’m glad you had fun. Did you buy anything?”

“I found a dress for the SCM holiday party.”

“I can’t wait to see it.”

“It’s backless.” I smile wickedly as Barret narrows his gaze.

“Of course, it is,” he says, kissing my neck. I give into the feel of his warm mouth for a minute, then sigh when I force myself to pull away.

“We’re going to be late. I still have to change.”