“Say it again, out here for everyone to hear.”
Her gut clenched. “Novak, we’re in public. And your daughter is watching.”
Novak’s gaze didn’t waver. “And your point?”
She flexed her fingers against his forearms. She moistened her lips, wondering why this had to be so hard for her.
He traced circles on her shoulders with his thumbs. He would stand here all night until she said the words.
“I love you,” she said, loud enough for Cindy and Bella to hear. Several of the regulars in the room started to holler encouragement. “And I’m not saying it any louder.”
Novak laughed and kissed her on the lips, tugging the folds of her jacket closed. “Baby steps, right?”
Julia nudged him close. “Exactly.”