The Letter(65)

“You thought what? That we got back together? I told you things were over between us.”

“But, he kissed you.” Gil said sheepishly, knowing he’d jumped to conclusions. “I just assumed…”

“Well, you assumed wrong. I’m not anything like Crystal. You just decided I was.”

“I know I was wrong, really I do. I should have talked to you. You should have heard the scolding Rebecca gave me when she figured out how I’d messed up.”

“Good. You deserved it.” Maddy stood there with her hands on her hips, glaring at him.

“I’m sorry, Maddy. Truly I am. I hope you can forgive me. I promise to always talk out any problems we have. From now on.”

“Gil, I was so hurt. I didn’t know why you just cut me out of your life.” Her eyes held the remnants of pain.

The look of hurt in her eyes tore at him. His heart thumped in his chest as he tried to make things right. “I know, and I’m so sorry I hurt you. I’ve missed you. Things keep happening and I want to talk to you, but then I realize that I’d pushed you away. Like a fool.”

“I know Crystal hurt you and got back with her ex. I even understand you thought I got back with Justin if you saw him kiss me. But why didn’t you talk to me?”

“I was just trying to protect myself, I guess. I figured you’d go back to your hotshot city job with your fancy city boyfriend. What did I have to offer you?”

Maddy paused for a moment as if clearing her thoughts. “I thought you had offered me your heart.” Her voice was soft and low.

Her words stung deep in his soul. He’d hurt her. Intensely. “I’m so sorry, Maddy. Will you give me another chance? Please?”

Maddy was quiet and Gil was sure he’d blown his chances with this enchanting woman forever. She looked up at him and he thought he saw the hint of a smile cross her face. His heart soared with hope.

She stood on her tiptoes and kissed him. A quick, chaste kiss. “I would like to try again, if you promise to always talk to me, not shut me out.”

“I promise.”

“I think it’s a bit crazy since I live halfway across the country.”

“You don’t have to live that far away, you know.”

“Let’s take it a step at a time.”

“Baby steps or big steps?” Gil grinned at her.

Maddy laughed. “Well, you could start by kissing me properly. I’ve missed those kisses of yours.”

“Yes, ma’am. I’d be willing to oblige you.”

With that he took this amazing woman in his arms and kissed her until she pulled away, laughing. “That might make up for a few missed kisses.”

“I would like to make up for a few more of them.”

“We have time, Gil. We have all the time in the world.” With that Maddy took his hand and they walked down the tree-lined lane to their future.