Today she was using a dark-skinned, dark-haired girl puppet, a crazy-haired redheaded girl puppet, and a blond, freckle-faced boy puppet. Each puppet had a distinct voice and personality, but it was Madigan’s effervescent storytelling that had the kids gasping and laughing and calling out to the puppets. When the puppets sang a snappy little tune with a repetitive line of I’m your friend, you’re my friend, let’s be everyone’s friend, they encouraged the kids to join them, and Tobias found himself tapping his foot to the beat.

After the show, the kids clapped and jumped to their feet as the puppets waved and blew kisses. The camp counselors helped the kids form a line, and Madigan came out from behind the booth to give each of the kids a goody bag. Many of the children hugged her, and they all left with smiles on their faces. As the counselors ushered the kids down a path, Madigan went behind the booth to put her puppets away, and Tobias headed for his girl.

“How much for a private show?”

“Tobias!” She popped to her feet, brightening the entire fucking sky.

“Hey, Blue Eyes.” He bent to kiss her.

Her gorgeous eyes trailed down his short-sleeved black button-down and jeans. “Wow, you look great. What are you doing here?”

“Bringing you these.” He pulled the bouquet of flowers he’d bought for her on the way there from behind his back.

Her eyes widened. “Oh my gosh, they’re beautiful.” She went up on her toes, pressing her lips to his, and he deepened the kiss, earning one of her enticing moans.

“Missed you,” he said, and went back for more, taking his fill and leaving her breathless and a little hazy eyed, which he loved.

She sighed dreamily. “You sure know how to greet a girl. What are the flowers for?”

“I told you I’m doing things right this time.”

She smelled the flowers. “I like the way you do things, but I still have to shower and get ready.”

“I’m in no hurry, babe. I wanted to catch you in action. You really have a gift for making a difference.”

“You saw the show? What did you think? Was I too chatty? The kids were so cute, weren’t they? I love it when they shout things, and I know I shouldn’t encourage calling out, but they’re so full of excitement…”

He couldn’t fit a word in edgewise as they put her things away, but he didn’t mind. She was so passionate about everything she did, and her excitement was contagious. When they finished putting everything away, she finally took a breath, her gorgeous eyes flicking up to his. “Sorry I’m such a talkaholic.”

“Stop. You’re adorable, your show was amazing, and I love your rambling.” Before she could say another word, he took her in another long, slow kiss.