Chapter 198

Cruise

Mid-December

"Sorry I couldn't come and pick you up," I apologize as Ruby meets me outside the only Baptist Church in town.

I had been cutting it close, working overnight. As it is, I've made it with ten minutes to spare, after going home, taking a shower, and changing into a pair of khakis and a button-down. My hair is still wet, and I didn't have time to shave, but they'll have to take me how I am.

"It's okay, I had Mom and Dad pick me up so I could ride back with you." She smiles up at me, leaning in for a kiss. She's wearing a modest dress with a cardigan over it, her hair half up in braid across the crown of her head, her curls a little unruly, just the way I like it. I like this buttoned up version of her; it makes me want to mess her up.

It's been a few days since I've seen her, and if I let myself, I'd take what she's offering right now way too far for the church parking lot.

"You look tired." She runs the palm of her hand against the stubble on my face, her