SEVEN
Sydney arrived at Will's a few minutes later and parked near the curb across the street from his house. She sighed and killed the engine. She sat for a moment trying to formulate exactly what to say to him. Sighing again, she got out of the car.
She walked across the street, her hands buried in her pockets and her eyes staring at the ground. She got to the door and stood there for a moment. She turned her head and watched as the rain continued to hit the pavement. She sucked in a breath and exhaled slowly. She knocked on the door softly and returned her hand to the safety of her pocket.
A minute later, the door opened.
Will greeted her.
Sydney said quietly.
Do you want to come inside? Will asked, moving away from the door so she could enter.
Sydney swallowed. Actually, could we talk out here for a minute?
Will nodded and stepped outside, shutting the door behind him. Are you sure, though? I mean, you must be freezing. He touched her arm.
I'm sorry I didn't kiss you earlier, she blurted.
Will laughed a little and shook his head. What do you mean? It was my fault for—
Sydney interrupted, it was mine. I wanted to, but I guess I wasn't thinking clearly because of the whole Sloane thing. She sighed and continued, Then tonight, after Vaughn briefed me, I realized that I wanted to be with someone. She paused and glanced at her feet, unsure of how he would take what she was about to say next. And then I also realized that the someone' I want to be with is you.
Will smiled and reached out a hand to stroke Sydney's cheek. Sydney took a step forward and stared into Will's eyes for a moment. Then she wrapped her arms around his neck and they kissed.
After the brief contact, Will stepped back a little.
What's the matter? Sydney asked, suddenly uneasy.
Will grinned. So we're really going to do this? The relationship thing? His blue eyes sparkled.
Sydney nodded and smiled. They kissed again and once more, Will pulled back.
Laughing, Sydney asked, What's wrong now?
Will's expression was serious. Sydney's heart sank.
His features softened. We should really get you out of those clothes, he said with a grin.
Sydney playfully punched him in the chest. So soon? she teased.
Will laughed nervously. I mean, because they're soaked and— He stopped when he saw Sydney giggling. He laughed with her and wrapped an arm around her shoulders as he led her inside.