My mouth stretches into a grin so wide it’s borderline painful. Her single syllable answer might be the most important one of my life up to this point. I want a future with her and knowing she feels the same gives me an enormous sense of relief. “Come here,” I order, my hands framing her face. Leaning forward, I close the distance between us, capturing her lips in a soft, slow exploration. She’s mine now. There’s no need to rush. My tongue swipes salty moisture from her lips and I draw back to appraise the reason she’s crying. “Are these happy tears?” I question, hopeful.

“Yes, they’re ecstatic tears,” she smiles. Her blue eyes shimmer like a glassy pool I want to dive into.

Hands gripping the wooden seat, I pull her stool in my direction. The metal legs make a scraping sound of protest against the hardwood floor as it slides toward me. My arms fold her in tight, my cheek lowers to rest on her soft, shiny hair. This moment is surreal. I’ve wanted her for months and as much as I hoped things would pan out this way, I never fully believed it would come to fruition.

“Make love to me,” she whispers.

My head raises, gaze locking on hers. “We can wait, Carter.”

“I don’t want to. I need you, now. Don’t make me beg.” My eyes flare with desire and sear into her as I slip off the stool and lift her into my arms. Confidently moving toward her bedroom, she’s light in my hold. I set her on the bed and help her remove each article of clothing. My eyes glide over the perfection of each curvy inch as it’s revealed. I can’t believe she’s naked on her bed and we’re about to get a lot closer – emotionally and physically. She’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. Rising to my feet, I strip off my clothes faster than humanly possible.

“Wow, that was quick,” she comments.

“Just call me the Flash,” I grin.

“Maybe now’s not the best time for me to be calling you that.”

Dropping to my knees between her thighs, I lower my chest, brushing my skin back and forth over her pebbled nipples. “Are you doubting my sexual skills?”

Her teeth rake over her bottom lip as she struggles to hold in a smile. “I’m reserving judgement until the end.”

She barely gets the words out before I close my mouth over hers, stroking our tongues together. My hands explore every inch of her body, while our lips stay connected. Cupping her tits, my thumbs swipe over her nipples then circle them.

Catching her gasp with my kiss, my fingertips pinch her nipples, plucking the pebbled tips. She hums, raising her hips. Making her feel good is the most important thing.

My mouth leaves hers to trace a line of meandering kisses down the delicate skin of her neck and onto the top of her chest. My nose nuzzles along the crease between her tits, before my mouth closes around a nipple, sucking and pulling on the taut tip.

Cock sliding along her wet slit, I nudge against her entrance. “I want you,” I growl. I can’t wait any longer to be inside her, to be connected in every way we can.

“Then take me, I’m yours.” She wraps her arms around me, pulling me closer. My hard length pushes slowly inside her wet pussy until I’m balls deep.

“Oh my god,” she moans. Her fingernails dig into the skin on my shoulders.

“I’m just getting started.” I can’t believe I’m inside her; I’ve wanted her to be mine for so long. Now that it’s happening, it’s surreal - and better than anything I’ve ever experienced before.

“You feel amazing.”

I thrust slowly, grinding into her sensitive clit with each stroke, her pleasure is the most important thing to me in this moment. This is how making love should be.

She grips my shoulders, nails digging in as she raises her curvy hips to meet my downward thrusts. Her warm, wet pussy is wrapped so snugly around me, the pleasure is excruciating. The tightness in my chest matches the one in my groin as I fight to hold off my orgasm. We’re on fire, each stroke of my cock fanning the flames further. Lowering my forehead to hers, we breathe in one another’s air as our exhales become quick short pants. My pace quickens, fingertips digging into the fair skin of her hips. I drive into her, slamming her pussy repeatedly until we both unravel.

Collapsing on her, I brace myself on my forearms. Hazel gaze locked with blue, there’s so much being communicated between us with no words necessary. I’ve never experienced anything like making love with Carter. I’ve fucked before and it was great, but what we just did took it to another level. A grin appears on my lips.

“What’s that smile for?” Her eyes sparkle like she has a secret.

“I was just thinking how awesome that was and how I can’t wait to do it again.”

“Yeah it was pretty good.” She rolls her lips inward.

“Pretty good? That was mind blowing.”

“If you do say so yourself,” she quips, eyebrows raising.

“Well, if you’d give me some props, I wouldn’t have to.”

“You rocked my world.” She places a hand on her chest.

“Now you’re just pacifying me,” I growl.

“No, I’m not. Seriously,” she reaches up, cupping my face with her palms. “That was the best sex I’ve ever had.”

“It was more than sex to me,” I confess, wanting her to know. When did I become the girl in our relationship? We’ve got a role reversal situation. She’s not great at communicating her feelings or being demonstrative with affection and I’m both of those things. I want to know how she feels about me, dammit.

“It was more than sex for me too, Nick. It’s a little scary to think about how much that meant to me.”

I run the tip of my nose against hers. “That’s what I wanted to hear. I’m just an insecure guy when it comes to you. I need to know that I mean something to you; that you think I’m special.”

“You’re special all right,” she giggles.

“Hey. I’ll remember this when you’re looking for a little reassurance.”

“You know I’m joking, but I shouldn’t be. I’ve never met anyone like you before. You really are one of a kind.”

“Is one of a kind a good thing in your book?”

“Absolutely. One of a kind means I’ve never felt like this before.” I connect our lips once more, swallowing her sigh as one of my hands trails up the inside of her lean thigh. I’ll never get enough of her no matter how many times we’re together.

* * *

“O’Shea, get your head out of your ass and catch the fucking ball,” Coach yells across the green expanse of the field. He’s pissed, and I’m not surprised. I’ve had butter fingers all practice and my legs feel weak. Maybe there’s more substance to Noah’s ‘no sex before a fight,’ rule than I’ve given him credit for. It’s not just the sex though. I’ve had that before practice and games with no problem whatsoever. What makes it different this time is that the all-night marathon was with someone that I love. Wait. Stumbling over my own feet, I grin, breaking into a deep, rumbling laugh. I fucking love Carter Collins.

“Are you okay there, man?” Owen Dawson, the starting quarterback, asks, thumping me on the back.

“Yeah, I’m great. Never been better,” I answer, a cheesy smile twisting my lips.

“Oh fuck.” Owen scowls as we move to huddle up.

“What’s wrong?”

“You’re in love,” he spits out at me.

“I am, and what’s wrong with being in love?”

“It’s a fucking distraction of the worst kind. We need your head in the game not focused on someone’s pussy.”

“Hey, don’t talk about her like that. She’s not just a piece of ass.” I grip the front of his shirt and get in his face. “She matters,” I growl, teeth clenched, before shoving him back.

Coach blows his whistle. “O’Shea, get your ass over here.”

Owen holds his hands up, taking a step backward. “I meant no disrespect to your girl. I’m only thinking of what’s good for the team.”

“Someday, you’re going to realize there’s more to life than football, Owen.”

He flashes me a skeptical look, before I head toward Coach. “I don’t ever see that happening, dude.” When his words reach me, I smirk knowing it’s only a matter of time before he loses his head over some girl.

“O’Shea, what’s your problem today?” Coach asks, arms crossed over his barrel chest.

“I don’t know, sir.”

“How about you run three miles and try to figure it out?”

“Okay, sir. Is that all?”

“Get your shit together for tomorrow, Nick. You have a lot of opportunities coming your way. I’m sure you don’t want to blow them.”

“No, sir.”

“Get out of here.”

I nod and walk to the bench where my water bottle stands. Squirting some into my mouth, I swallow it down with a sigh of relief. It’s hot and humid this morning and I’d much rather be returning to my apartment, instead of having to run laps, but an order from coach can’t be ignored. Even if I don’t agree, I respect him enough to do as he says.

Setting the bottle back down on the bench along the sideline of the practice field, I walk toward the large track that circles the perimeter. Once my feet reach the paved surface, I set a slow pace for the first lap as my mind wanders to Carter. Last night was easily the best of my life. I can’t wait to see her later. The next six hours can’t pass quickly enough.

* * *

Sinking down on the edge of my bed, fresh from a shower, my thumbs race over the screen of my phone as I type out a text for Carter.

Me: I miss your beautiful smile. Can’t you make this day go faster?

My entire body aches after the hours of practice capped off by the three-mile run. It’s a good pain, though. Sore muscles make me feel a sense of accomplishment and that’s never a negative.

Carter: Hey, how’s your day going? Sadly, I haven’t learned how to control time yet.

Grinning that she texted me back, I immediately type out my reply.

Me: Can I take you out tonight?

Carter: I’d like that. Where are we going?

Me: Not telling. Dress casual and bring bug spray.

I chuckle as I read my answer, before sending it.

Carter: Are we going to be in the woods? I’m scared of Bigfoot.

Me: We won’t be in a wooded area. #NoBigfootSightings where we’ll be.

Carter: Okay, #TrustingYou. What time do I need to be ready?

Me: I’ll pick you up at six. Don’t eat. I’ve got it all under control.

I don’t yet, but I will by the time I pick her up.

Carter: I’ll see you then, xx.

Glancing at the clock on my nightstand, I notice it’s only two. Plenty of time to nap before I should get everything we’ll need for our date. I throw my phone on top of my comforter and fall back on my bed, still wrapped in my damp towel. The moment my eyes close, I’m already halfway to sleep.

* * *

"Where are we?” she asks. Her eyes scan the area as I park the car and head around to open her door.

“This is my grandparents’ house,” I explain, holding my hand out to help her from my Jeep. “They’re out of town right now for a wedding.”

“Is it okay that we’re here?”

“Of course,” I laugh. “This is basically my second home. Growing up, I spent as much time here as I did at my own house.” I squeeze her hand, grinning down at her. I’m happy she’s with me and I can’t hide it. “Come on, I want to show you one of my favorite things about this property.” Walking side by side, we follow the stone path as it cuts across the front of the yard, running parallel with the enormous white structure. Carter’s eyes are the size of dinner plates as she takes it all in. I know seeing this place for the first time can be intimidating. The two massive fluted columns framing the front door are too ostentatious for my taste. I hope Carter isn’t turned off by my family’s obvious wealth. We’ve spent enough time together for her to realize I’m a down to earth guy who lives simply, well, except for my boat.

We continue along the path, the soles of our shoes scuffing stones, as it gently curves around the side of the house. Her gasp of surprise as she notices the large pond has me smiling. Guiding her along, we stick to the meandering pathway as it elegantly flows around beds of colorful flowers and trees that provide shade for various seating areas. My grandparents love to entertain, and every detail of this backyard was planned out with that in mind.

The stone walkway brings us almost to the edge of the pond. I lead Carter to a bench. “Have a seat. I’m going to grab some things from my Jeep.”

“Do you need help?” she asks, sweetly.

“No, you sit here and enjoy the view.” I stroke my fingers down her cheek. “I’ll be back in a flash.”

“I could get used to this treatment,” she sighs as I row us smoothly across the large pond.

“I hope you do. I’ll gladly row you around here, whenever you want.”

Her blue eyes gleam as she studies me. “You’re pretty good at this. Were you on the crew team in high school?”

“No, I was too busy playing football, but I’ve been taking a boat out on this pond since I was too young to do so.” Leaning back, I stroke the oars evenly through the water, propelling us to the edge of the small island in the middle of the pond. Jumping over the side, my sneaker covered feet splash into the shallows as I pull the boat onto the muddy shore.

“So, this is why you told me to dress casually.”

“Yep, most fun things can be messy,” I wiggle my eyebrows at her. “Here, put your hands on my shoulders,” I instruct her as she rises to her feet inside the boat. Scooping her up, she raises her legs to circle my hips and I walk her to dry land, before setting her safely down.

“That’s service, right there.”

“I aim to please ma'am.” I tip an imaginary cap in her direction and then pivot, heading back to the boat. Grabbing the small cooler, insulated bag and a Boston University Terriers blanket, I retrace my steps back to Carter. “Follow me,” I order as I tread further inland through some trees to an open space. She helps me spread the blanket out evenly over the flat patch of vivid green grass. I place the cooler and bag down on the edge of the blanket. “Take a seat and get comfortable. We’re about to chow down some wings and pizza.”

“I like your idea of a picnic.”

“Hey, what can I say? I’m a man for all seasons,” I joke as I drop down next to her.

“And for all women?” she questions, drolly.

“I wouldn’t say that. I’m a man for only one woman, these days.” Leaning in, I sweep a kiss over her tempting lips. “And that’s the way I plan on keeping it.”

“That’s good to know. Thanks for letting me in on your plans.”

“Anytime.” I wink. “What would you like to drink? I brought water, soda and beer.”

“Drink? Give me some pizza and wings first and then we can talk about the rest.”

“You’re turning me on with your love of food. If you don’t stop, we might not get around to eating any time soon.” Unzipping the insulated container, I remove the large pizza box. Raising the cover, I grab a slice of bacon and slap it on a paper plate. I do the same with the Styrofoam container of wings, selecting a few I think she’ll like. I hand it over to her, along with a napkin before dishing some out for myself.

“Mm, this pizza is awesome. Where did you get it from?”

“It’s Gino’s. Have you ever eaten there?”

“No. Where is it?”

“It’s close to our building, within walking distance. I’ll take you sometime.”

“Yes, please. I need to know where this place is. This is the best bacon pizza I’ve ever had.”

“And you thought I was just a pretty face and charming personality. Stick with me, baby, I’ll show you all the finer things in life.”

“I might be attracted to your perfect teeth too.” She shrugs, looking down.

“Do you have some weird teeth fetish I should know about?”

“No,” she protests, her eyes raising to flash blue fire at me. “No weird fetishes at all. I’m just a sucker for a nice smile.”

“I went through hell to get this smile. Knowing you appreciate it pleases me.” Reaching into the cooler, I remove a beer, holding it out to her. “Would you like one?”

“No thanks. Do you have any soda in there?”

“Yep, I do.” Gripping an ice cold can, I pass it to her, wiping the moisture from my hand onto my tan cargo shorts.

“Thank you.” She lifts the metal tab, releasing a loud hiss of air. My admiring stare is solidly secured on the graceful arch of her neck as she raises the can to parted lips, swallowing down a large gulp. Her lids close as she savors the refreshing taste and when they pop open once more, she notices me ogling her. She fidgets, crossing her legs beneath her like a small child. Plucking the can of soda from her hand, I set it on the grass. “Hey.” Her expression is one of mock outrage.

Catching her chin between my index finger and thumb, I lean into her, connecting our lips for a long, slow, heart pounding kiss. Her tongue is cold from the soda she drank, bewitching me as it sensually strokes my own. The roar of blood rushing to my cock, makes me dizzy and I wrench my lips from hers. “Fuck. I really wanted to be on my best behavior, but you make it impossible.”

She raises her palms. “How? By drinking my soda?”

“Yes. Watching you swallow got me all worked up.” She snorts, covering her mouth with her hand. “Wait, that didn’t come out how I wanted.” Raking a hand through my hair, I’m aggravated at my obvious lack of composure and sexual frustration. “It’s not the thought of you swallowing that got me worked up, although thinking about that has me looking forward to whenever that lucky day might be.” A hint of a smile crosses my lips as I take her hand in mine. “This small island has always been my retreat from whatever’s troubling me. It’s a magical place; my own personal sanctuary.” Glancing at our clasped hands, I notice how fair hers is compared to mine. “Life’s worries disappear once I set foot on this rocky shoreline. I’ve never brought another person here; not even my closest friends. I’ve never imagined sharing this with anyone, but now I’m so fucking grateful you’re sitting beside me.” My grip on her palm tightens. “I like you Carter. Hell, I might even love you, but I promised myself I wouldn’t rush you or pressure you in any way.” Raising her hand to my lips, our eyes lock as I place a kiss on her smooth skin.

Her bright eyes peer into mine tenderly, communicating that she might love me too.