Next morning, I pull into the lot of the park to find Liam leaning against the trunk of bumble bee waiting for me in fitted but not too tight blue jeans and his B.F.D sweatshirt.
I grab for the handle of my door when it suddenly flies open and Liam's there with a body shivering smile, holding out a hand.
I've barely stood and he pulls me into a warm hug planting his lips on mine.
Liam: Morning beautiful.
Willow: Morning.
Liam takes my hand leading us to the trail.
The morning sun dances off the winter dew in the grassy fields while shimmering through the trees creating a radiating glow around Liam's tall masculine figure. His sent mixed with natures sends my body into a fit of desire craving to be closer.
I squeeze his hand tighter and see a smile creep up on his face while Looking my way through the corner of his eye. That small glimpse causes the world to fall silent as the beating of my heart becomes the only sound.
Liam: So, Tom? He's a little protective of you?
Willow: Oh no was he rude on your way-out last night?
Liam: Quite the opposite actually. He seemed happy at my leaving so soon.
Willow: Liam I am sorry. About last night and about Tom. Yes, Tom can be a little protective. We have been friends and neighbors for a few years. He's also kind of my personal trainer.
Liam: Personal trainer?
Willow: Yeah, he drags my ass to the gym a few days a week.
Liam grunts under his breath. Clenching his jaw.
Liam: So, you and him?
Willow: No... no... nothing like that. He knows I only see him as a friend.
Liam: He was friends with your husband?
Willow: Yes, and I think that's kind of why he feels a little protective maybe? But you have nothing to worry about....
For the first time in a really long time I feel happy. I'm happy when I'm with you.
Liam stops to pull me into a passionate kiss.
Liam: Me too. I can't help but believe fate had something to do with you showing up in that parking lot. The one Friday a month that I go to a meeting.
We continue walking.
Willow: You really believe those meetings helped you with the loss of your brother?
Liam: I do. Though I think it would have been easier if I would have had someone like you around at the time, I want you know I can be that someone for you. Anytime you want to go to a meeting I'll take you or if you just want to talk to someone, I'm here for you.
I lean into him while we walk wanting to take the opportunity to tell him everything but tears threaten to unleash while I find myself choking on images I desperately wish not to see.
A little girls laughter echoes followed by more laughter. I squeeze my eyes but the laughter is louder and closer. Suddenly Liam is pulling me behind him. I open my eyes just in time to see him catching a soccer ball that had been barreling toward me.
He drop kicks the all back at the giggling children near a playground.
Kid: Thank you
The little boys voice melted my heart.
Liam: You alright.
Willow: My mighty protector. However, do I thank you for saving my life from that ungodly wild ball?
Liam begins to tickle my ribs the. Steels a kiss before slapping my ass.