Only for You

35: Homecoming

The soft hum of the jet's engines filled the cabin, the luxurious interior dimly lit to create an intimate ambiance. Fatima sat across from Zac, her arms folded, watching him with narrowed eyes. He was entirely too pleased with himself.

"Where are we going?" she asked again, stretching her legs out and nudging his foot with hers.

Zac looked up from his phone and smirked. "Uh-uh. I said it's a surprise."

Fatima groaned dramatically, throwing her head back against the plush leather seat. "At least tell me how long this flight has been."

"Almost three hours."

She pouted, shifting in her seat. "Can I get a clue?"

Zac leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees as he studied her. "There's a sun."

Fatima blinked before rolling her eyes. "Wow. So helpful."

He chuckled, reaching for her hand and lacing their fingers together. "Trust me, baby, you're gonna love it."

She sighed, playing with his fingers. "I already love being here with you, but you know I hate surprises."

"I know," he murmured, pulling her hand to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to her knuckles. "That's why I'm making you suffer."

Fatima narrowed her eyes but couldn't help the smile creeping onto her lips. "You're lucky I love you."

Zac smirked, tugging her hand until she got up from her seat and straddled his lap. His hands instinctively found her waist, fingertips brushing against the exposed skin where her sweater had lifted slightly.

"You love me, huh?" he teased, voice low.

She traced the curve of his jaw with her fingertips, her nails lightly grazing his skin. "Mmm-hmm."

Zac tilted his head back against the seat, watching her with hooded eyes. "Say it again."

Fatima leaned in, her lips barely grazing his as she whispered, "I love you."

Zac let out a deep breath, his grip on her tightening. "You have no idea how much I love you."

Her heart clenched, the weight of his words settling deep in her chest. She cupped his face, her thumb brushing over his lips. "Show me," she whispered.

Zac didn't hesitate. His lips crashed against hers, slow and deep, taking his time like they had nowhere else to be. She melted into him, her arms wrapping around his neck as his hands roamed her back.

Fatima moaned softly against his lips, her fingers running over his hair. He growled, tilting his head to deepen the kiss, his hands gripping her thighs, pulling her even closer.

"Damn, Tima," he muttered against her lips.

She giggled breathlessly, pulling back just enough to look into his darkened eyes. "What?"

"You know exactly what." His thumb brushed over her bottom lip, his eyes flickering down to her mouth. "You're trying to start something."

Fatima smirked, pressing a quick peck to his lips. "I would never."

Zac arched a brow. "Lies."

She giggled, but before she could respond, a knock sounded at the door of the cabin. "Mr. Taylor, we'll be landing in twenty minutes," the flight attendant announced.

Fatima looked at Zac expectantly. "Guess that means I'll find out where we are soon."

Zac smirked, his fingers tracing circles on her hip. "Yep. And you're gonna owe me an apology for doubting my surprise skills."