Valentine's Dream. Carmen Green

wanting to be with you. But I’m not out of the woods, it seems. You could still turn me down. If that happens, I’ll deal with it. The cruise leaves in ten days. I want you to come with me, Grace.”

      She was afraid to ask, what if she didn’t?

      An announcement echoed through the terminal about the departure of train 317 to Westchester, leaving on Track 29.

      “No matter what else happens, there’s something I have to do before you go,” Carter began.

      Grace stood waiting. She knew exactly what it was. Carter put his arms around her, drawing her to his chest. She knew instantly that this was more than caring, more than affection. His mouth descended, and she closed her eyes and tilted her head so he would fit properly atop her open lips. The first touch went to her head, his mouth gently moving and caressing hers. She became pliant and willing and easy and breathless.

      The euphoria was like a drug that she’d been without for so long; the sensation was dramatic and overwhelming.

      Grace let Carter take his fill. Even she held nothing back, enjoying the delicious expertise of his embrace, the sensual dance of his tongue around hers. It was a sweet awakening.

      And, very possibly, a bittersweet goodbye.