Promised (The Promised Series)

parent’s house until I can afford my own place. Then, when the time is right, I can marry Linc. Can I do this?
    He must sense my nervousness because he gives my hand another squeeze and says. “You don’t have to decide tonight, but I wanted you to know you have options. Please, consider them.”
    I pull in to his driveway and put the car in to park. Then I release my seat belt and turn to look at him. I want to throw myself in his arms and tell him that’s exactly what I want, but I need to keep my head and think this over. “I’m going to think about it, but I have to keep up this show with Shay and my parents while I do it.”
    He places his hand against my jaw and uses his thumb to rub my cheek. “I don’t like it, but I understand why you have to. But if I’m going to wait for my answer, can I at least see you while you’re thinking about it?”
    “It’ll be hard. Shay’s my ride to and from school now, and Mom’s made me stop the volunteering so I can focus on the wedding plans. But we can see each other at school and I’ll try to find a way to see you other times. We’ll have to be careful though.”
    The smile that lights up his face at my words makes me happy I’m giving in to him. I’ve missed that smile. “We’ll be careful. I don’t want to mess this up again.”
    “I don’t want to either.” I whisper back. Dani flashes her lights behind us, reminding me we need to get in gear. I sigh and say. “We better get you inside.”
    “Ok, but one more thing first.”
    “What?”
    He moves his hand to the back of my neck and pulls me closer, pressing his lips to mine for a gentle kiss.
    Pulling back just enough that our lips are no longer touching, he asks. “Have I mentioned that I miss you?”
    “Once or twice.” I smile against his lips.
    “I better get inside.” He pulls back smiling himself.
    “Do you need me to help you?”
    “Nah.”
    “You know for a guy who’s supposed to be drunk, you don’t act it.”
    “I’m not drunk, maybe a little tipsy, but not smashed. Though, I can’t say I’m upset about Nate texting you. It made going to that party worth it.” His smile turns into his signature knee weakening grin.
    “I can’t say I disagree with you.”
    *************************************
    “So?” Dani asks as she backs back out on to the road.
    “I missed him.” I sigh, laying my head back against the head rest, turning my neck so I’m facing her.
    “Tell me something I don’t already know.” She shakes her head.
    “He pretty much told me he’d marry me if I choose him.”
    She stops the car in the middle of the road and turns to me with her mouth hanging open.
    I lean forward and using my knuckles, I push her mouth closed. “I told him I don’t want to be married at eighteen, but he did give me some things to think over.”
    “Did you completely forget you’re already planning to be married at eighteen?” Dani points out, turning back around and putting the car in drive.
    “Like I could forget.” I mumble, turning my head to look out the passenger window. The night sky is clear and the moon is shining down and guiding our way. I’ve always enjoyed this time of night. When the road’s clear of other cars, it makes me feel as if I’m one of a few people left on the planet. It’s peaceful, perfect for thinking over life changing decisions. I find the brightest star in the sky and close my eyes, sending up a quiet wish for guidance.
    “What are you going to be thinking over?” Dani asks, drawing me back into the car and out of my thoughts.
    “He gave me some ideas of what I could do if I chose him.” I tell the window instead of looking over to see what her reaction is. If I’m honest, the biggest thing keeping me from choosing Linc is the thought of losing Dani. I hate the idea of losing Adam and my un-born niece too, but mostly Dani. She’s been my best friend since I knew what a best friend was and I don’t want to turn my back on that. I don’t know if I can turn my back on that.
    “He’s taking it seriously.” She whispers to herself. I can practically hear the wheels turning in her head. She probably thinks I’ve already made my decision.
    “Dani, I haven’t decided yet.” I feel the need to reassure her.
    “Uh-huh.” She mumbles. I look over at her and see the tears shinning in her eyes.
    “I swear. I have a lot to think over, but I haven’t decided anything.” I reach across the seat and rub her shoulder to reassure