sorry for not posting a new chapter in a few days... I've been crazy busy. this one is kinda super short but I wanted to post before too long. hopefully I'll get another chapter out soon!
*the kitchen*
Joe doesn't let go. Mel looks down at her right hand, clasped firmly in Joe's left and takes a moment to memorize the feeling. Then, slowly, she turns her face to Joe's. He releases Mel's hand and moves his own to her forearm, lifting his right hand to her neck.
She breathes in sharply. He leans in. Her mind races. They are standing in nearly the same spot they had been before but this time there is no interruption, no Lennox and Ryder bursting in the back door. This time Joe does what Mel has denied he had ever intended to do. He kisses her. Passionately. And then pulls away.