She could hardly believe that Christmas and the wedding were only nine days away. “There’s already no way I’ll ever forget tonight.”

“We’re just getting started, and you look incredible, baby. How many more sexy outfits do you have hidden away?”

“A few,” she said. “Which reminds me, I need to grab my bag from the bedroom. We’re staying at your place, right?”

“Unless you prefer staying here,” he said, following her down the hall.

“This doesn’t even feel like home anymore. It feels like a stopover.”

He pulled her closer and said, “Then let’s make it official. Move in with me, baby. I love you and you love me, and we’re together every night anyway. Let’s make my place our place.”

Goose bumps chased over her skin. “Really?”

“It’s what I’ve wanted for weeks. When we’re apart, something inside me feels unsettled. But at the end of the day, when one of us walks through that door and into the other’s arms, everything feels right again. I almost asked you the night we got our tree, but I didn’t want to rush you.”

“Rush me, Quincy, because in my head I’m already there.” Happiness bubbled up inside her. “I guess we’d better bring my bookcase, huh?”

He lifted her off her feet, twirling her around as they kissed. As he set her down, he said, “You just made me the happiest guy on earth. We’ll bring your bookcase and everything else. We’ll start moving tomorrow after work, and I’ll finish up while you’re at Josie’s party Sunday afternoon. I’ll get Tru and the guys to help.”

He picked up her bag and draped an arm around her. As they headed down the hall, she said, “They might have plans.”

“Then I’ll move you in myself. I’m not giving you time to change your mind.”

“Like that would ever happen. You’re stuck with me, buddy. And I’m paying half the rent.”

He scoffed. “Like hell you are.”

She put her hand on her hip and said, “Rent is nonnegotiable. If you want me to move in, then you have to accept my terms.”

“You drive a hard bargain. Fine. I’ll put my half into buying you things.”

She gave him a disapproving look.

“Love you.” He kissed her and helped her on with her coat.

As they headed down to his truck, she asked, “How did it go with Simone? Did you like the place she’s moving into?”

“It was fine. I don’t like her in that area, but I stopped by the bar on my way back and talked to Diesel. He assured me that they’d continue watching out for her. She hasn’t run into any more trouble, but her ex is a real prick. He might be waiting for her to get out from under the protection of the Dark Knights. Hopefully by then she can find a place in Peaceful Harbor or head to Redemption Ranch.”

“I’d be terrified if I were her. I read online that the person you take a restraining order out against is notified when it comes through. If he’s as awful as he seems, he’s probably not done trying to get her to use drugs again.”