The feel of his arms and lips and just all of him was as delicious as she remembered. Anticipation sweetened the moment. This was good, she thought happily. Yes, it was difficult moving on, but it was also the right thing to do.

He stared into her eyes and stroked her face. “You doing okay?”

“Better than okay. I’m happy to see you.”

Something flickered in his eyes. She couldn’t tell what he was thinking, but hoped it wasn’t anything bad.

“I’m happy to be seen,” he said lightly.

She smiled and reached for his hand.

“We’re having ribs for dinner. They’ve been marinating all day, so they should be delicious. We can eat inside or outside. It’s still really hot outside, but the patio is in the shade.”

He picked up the bakery box. “Eclairs. Dagmar said they’re your favorite. These need to be refrigerated.”

“I have a refrigerator. It’s perfect.”

They went into the kitchen. He glanced around, as if taking in everything.

“Is this your place or do you rent?”

“It’s mine,” she told him. “I know it needs major remodeling. I’ve been meaning to get to it, but I’ve been so busy with my other projects.” She put the pink box into the refrigerator before facing him again. “I’m leasing office space.”

Thaddeus’s eyebrows rose. “You are?”

She nodded. “It’s time. I turn away so much business. I’m signing the lease in a couple of days.” She felt herself blushing, which was silly. “I’ve also started interviewing for a couple of full-time employees.”

“That’s big. Congratulations.”

“Thank you. I’m terrified, of course. It’s so much responsibility. They’re depending on me for their paychecks. But I have a new accountant to help me with the paperwork.”

“Forward progress,” he said lightly.

“That’s the plan.” She fought the urge to cross her arms over her chest. “You’ve been so great to me. I know being around me isn’t easy and I want you to know that I appreciate how wonderful you’ve been.”

He tensed a little. “But?”

She moved close and put her hands on his chest. “No but. And I’m glad you’re here.”

His gaze searched hers. She grabbed his hands and put them at her waist, then leaned against him.

“I feel as if you’re waiting for me to do something awful. I’m so sorry about that. I’m not going to change my mind about us. I’m really glad you’re here, Thaddeus. I want this.” She stared into his dark eyes. “I want you.”

She felt him relax.

“I want this, too,” he admitted. “You get to me more than I would like.”

“That’s kind of nice to hear.”

“For you,” he said ruefully.

“I hope you know none of this has been a game.”

He brushed his mouth against hers. “I know. You’re doing the best you can.”

“Thank you for understanding.” She stepped back. “Okay, I bought the beer you like along with some very fancy Scotch. Which would you prefer?”