My breath whispers past my lips as I exhale before answering the door. My hands press against my nervous stomach. His smile widens as his gaze drifts over my body in appreciation.

"I feel underdressed," he teases. I knew I had overdone it, but I always tend to overcompensate when feeling anxious.

"You're perfect," slid from my lips, causing his to curl most mischievously. Oh, that grin he knew what it did to me. I could see he'll show me no mercy tonight.

Without saying a word, he entered the house, and I shut the door behind him. His presence filled the room. It should be sinful to have one man be able to claim my thoughts and my heart in such an all-consuming way.

"You always manage to surprise me," he confessed, taking in the candles, the table set for two, and the wine chilling in the ice bucket. "I had planned to take you out this evening." 

I shrugged nonchalantly. "It doesn't matter where we go. All that matters is that I'm with you."

"No need to walk away from this just to please me." He pulled me into his arms and held me close. I could feel his heartbeat against my palm as he held it against his chest. "Besides, we're finally together."

"Yes, we are," my voice came out a husky whisper and I could see a knowing flash in his eyes.

His hand touched my face and I nuzzled my cheek against his palm. He tilts my head up ever so slightly to claim my lips. A tear escapes my eyes.

Concern fills his features. "What is it? What's wrong?"

"After twenty-five years, I still can't stand the thought of a single day without you."

He kissed my tears away. "Silly girl, our love will never die."