“I thought you’d never ask.”
Epilogue
STELLAN
“This is beautiful,” Foster breathed as he took in the view in front of us.
The cool water lapped against our toes in the sand as the waves crashed into the shore, and the sun was kissing the water as it set for the evening.
I’d kept my promise to myself and whisked Foster away for a weeklong getaway to Florida to meet my parents. My sister, her husband, and children rushed over as soon as we’d arrived, since they were excited to meet Foster. So the trip had turned into a family affair. A few times I’d heard my youngest niece, Ellery, slip up and call Foster, Uncle Foster. But rather than scare me, I loved the sound of the permanency behind it.
I’d spent more time with his parents and had put on a few pounds thanks to Brenda’s amazing cooking. And true to their word, both she and Howard went to listen to the band play at Clancy’s one night and promptly invited the band over for Sunday dinner. I’d had an odd sense of pride looking into the audience and seeing them sitting there among the other patrons as they’d watched us play. And every so often they’d steal a glance at Foster and their own pride would shine brightly in their eyes. Having them there just further proved how much they loved their son and accepted us as a couple.
Even though we had his new place, we still spent more time at mine than anywhere else. Since he’d signed a lease, I knew there would be no moving in together anytime soon, but it definitely was a conversation I wanted us to have when the time came.
“Thank you,” Foster said in a hushed tone.
My arms were wrapped firmly around his middle with his back pressed against my chest and my chin resting on his shoulder. “For what?”
“Everything. Bringing me here. Taking a chance on me. Loving me.”
“How could I not? I’m not sure if soul mates are a real thing, but if they are…you’re definitely mine, Foster.”
Foster twisted in my arms, so he was facing me. The setting sun against the ocean providing the perfect backdrop for the two of us. “Do you really mean that?”
I swallowed hard and nodded “I do. When I think about my future now, you’re a big part of it. What about you? What do you see when you think about yours?”
“You. All I see is you.”
I pressed my lips lightly against his. “Anything else?”
He shrugged. “Working at Clancy’s, getting to know the band even better. Sharing meals together and eventually a bed. Possibly growing old together,” he added shyly.
I sucked in a breath. Thank fuck we were on the same wavelength. “That sounds pretty long-term. Permanent, even.”
“I hope so. Because I love you so damn much.”
“That’s good, since I love you too.”
“You might have been the first man I was ever with, Stellan, but I hope like hell you’ll be the last person.”
My heart felt like it was about to beat out of my chest as a wave crashed behind us, sending a flood of water over our feet. “There was something about you I couldn’t stay away from, and I’m glad I listened to my gut.”
“Me too, Sax Man. Me too.”
As our lips came together in a promising kiss, I knew that one day I’d put a ring on his finger. One that would be so gold and shiny it’d rival my saxophone. But until that day came, much later in the future, I’d enjoy our time together. In the meantime, we’d learn, love each other, and play. And we’d do it together.
The End
Thank You For Reading!
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Acknowledgments
Thank you for taking the time to read Play with Me! This book was a big challenge for me, but one I gladly accepted. Stellan and Foster’s story came as a huge surprise, but I am so glad they chose me to write it. I hope you enjoy their journey!
Aimee, I always need to thank you first. You’re not only a wonderful friend, but you’re also my biggest supporter and the best cheerleader I could ever ask for.
Shey, thank you for always being a listening ear and amazing friend.
Kelly, thank you for beta reading this book and offering suggestions with your eagle-eye. You’re awesome.
DJ, thank you so much for editing this book for me! You’re fan-freaking-tastic!
Racheal, you’re the best PA/friend/beta an author could ever ask for. Thank you for making my teasers.
Michele and Steph, I love both of you ladies.
Gwen, you are amazing, don’t forget that! And thank you for formatting Play With Me, for me!
Morningstar, thank you again for such a beautiful cover! You help bring my books to life with your incredible work.
To everyone else, thank you for following me along on this journey. I appreciate each and every one of you.
About the Author
Brittany was born in Enterprise, Alabama and moved to a small town in Indiana when she was thirteen. And, even though the town is named Kokomo, it’s nothing like the Beach Boys song. During her free time, she loves to read amazing books, watch mindless television, and spend time with family and loved ones. Oh, and squeeze in writing some time throughout the day as well. She is also the mom to an adorable, yet precocious, Border Collie named Delilah. When not doing any of those fun-filled activities, she works at a hospital as a switchboard operator.
Also by Brittany Cournoyer
The Consequence of Destiny
Fated Heroes
Dark Saviors
Forever in Middlebury
Teaching Tenderness
Teaching Trust
Teaching Truthfulness
Personal Protectors
Vow of Protection
Promise to Shield
Oath of Valor
Valentine’s Inc.
Kissing Lessons
Battle Ship
Ain’t Snow Mountain High Enough
Badge and Bullets
At a Stranger’s Mercy
With a Friend’s Strength
With a Lover’s Courage
Out of Darkness
Captivated
Standalones