“Mara, you’re a genius. Sam’s hand is gripping something, and he’s pointing a finger.”

Before his mind engaged, Joey grabbed Mara and gave her a sound kiss on the lips. In that single beat of his heart, he instantly regretted the spontaneous act. He’d been thinking about kissing her for a lifetime, and the kiss he’d just given her seemed an eternity away from his fantasy. In his dreams, the connection was tender and satisfying.

He stopped and cupped her jaw. “I’m sorry. That was inappropriate, especially here, in this place.  I wasn’t thinking, but I have to tell you, I’ve been waiting a long time to kiss you.” He took a step back. “It’s just this place. Sam. Wanting to spend time with you. It’s a lot to deal with all at once.”

“I’m sure coming back, dealing with your dad, and your own grief, it must be hard.”

“It seems so surreal. Sam’s gone. He’s really gone.”

Mara touched his chest, then slid her arm up to touch his face. “If I could take your pain away, I would.”

“You can’t.” The sting behind his eyes intensified.

“I know.”

He leaned in to capture her lips. The sweet kiss felt comfortable, like a soft summer breeze, even though the temperature hovered around freezing. When he lifted his head, he interpreted her facial expressions, and damn if he didn’t see disappointment.

“Mara?”

“I’m not breakable,” she whispered, then tugged him closer. “Kiss me like you mean it. Let me help ease your pain.”