“They’re doing it the day he proposed.”

“Which time?” He told her about Jed’s first spontaneous proposal, and the second, planned one.

“The first time. They’re getting married in February.”

“Okay, well, it sucks that I ruined their wedding, but I’m glad I’ll get to see them get married. Have you heard anything about Simone or Penny? Are they okay?”

“Yes. Diesel’s flying with Simone out to Redemption Ranch tomorrow, and Penny and I talk every day. She’s worried about you, but like the rest of us, she has faith in you.”

“I appreciate that. I hate that I put everyone through this. At least I’ll be out in time to see you perform in the Winter Showcase.”

“You aren’t putting us through anything, Quincy. You didn’t take those drugs. Puck did this, and they’ve arrested him.” She filled him in on what Truman and Biggs had told her. “And you know what?”

“I know a lot of whats. The most important being that I love you, beautiful.”

She pressed those gorgeous lips to his. “I’m glad rehab hasn’t dimmed your melting powers. It’s only twenty-four more days. They’re important days, and yes, they will be treacherously hard, but I’ll see a therapist and get back to dancing, and you’ll work on your recovery, and after twenty-four brutal days, we’ll be even stronger. That’s a small price to pay when we have forever to look forward to.”

Chapter Twenty-Seven

NEW YEAR’S DAY brought eight inches of snow and ice, and winter remained in full force throughout the month of January. But like a beacon of things to come, as Quincy walked out of the rehab center after completing his thirty-day program, the sun was shining, his girl was smiling, and the brisk winter air had never felt so good. They made their way to Roni’s car, and he tossed his bag in the back seat and hauled her into his arms, lifting her right off her feet and kissing her as deeply and as passionately as he’d been dreaming about for too damn long. She made those sinful sounds he loved, touching his arms and back.

She tore her mouth away, her eyes dark and hungry, and said, “Your muscles are so big.”

“I guess those twice-a-day workouts paid off.”

“They sure did. I can’t wait to get your clothes off.”

God, he adored her.

“Let’s get out of here, beautiful, and spend the next twenty-four hours naked in each other’s arms.”

They settled into their seats, and as they drove away, Roni talked at breakneck speed about how happy she was that he was coming home, how great therapy had been, and how excited she was about dancing for him in the showcase.

“Angela and I took Kennedy and Lincoln out for two dates, and the kids and I had a slumber party one night so Tru and Gemma could have a break. We had so much fun.”

She glanced at him, her brow furrowing, and he realized he was staring, but he couldn’t look away. He squeezed her hand, sure he was grinning like a fool.