Chapter 16

Gideon didn’t pull away when the tender caress ended, resting his forehead against Jesse’s. “Your dinner’s getting cold.”

“I know,” Jesse said, in the same tone he’d use for I don’t care.“But that’s why God invented microwaves.”

“I think Emma might object to being put in the microwave.”

“I think Emma might just be happy if we’re on speaking terms again when we go back inside.”

“Are we?” Gideon pulled away enough to meet his eyes again, though his hand remained firm at the small of Jesse’s back. “I don’t like it when things are tense between us, Jess.”

“Believe me, I don’t like it either.” Jesse took a deep breath, trying to gather his thoughts. “Look, I’m not happy about the situation, and you know that. But I know you have your reasons…and they’re not malicious. It’s just a bit frustrating at times.”

“Frankly, I’m surprised you don’t get frustrated with me more than you do. You’re the only one who’s ever really understood me.”