Different But Same (Eli "Hawk" Moskowitz)

LXXII. Fed The Flames Too Many Times To Count

Lainey took Eli's hand and he pulled her close.

They danced together, without music. Her head against his chest - this was a perfect moment they shared together. The church lit by the lights and candles dotted around on old wooden tables, he really was such a romantic.

"Is this okay?" Eli whispered.

"Of course, this is so thoughtful," Lainey replied with a smile. "Thank you so much."

"I figured I owed you this much, you deserve a nice night."

"Thank you," she whispered in response.

"Anything for you."

"How did you do all of this?"

"Sam helped me."

Lainey smiled. "Of course she did."

"We just want you to be happy, princess."

"I know, I know." Lainey looked up at Eli. "Don't you start work with my dad tomorrow?"

Eli nodded.

"God, Louie's gonna love seeing you again." Lainey giggled.

"Jeez, I'd forgotten about Louie."

"How can you forget him?"

Eli laughed. "I dunno."

"So, is my sister taking you straight to work?"

"No idea."

Lainey giggled. "The fact my dad allowed this to happen is insane."

"Sam said she told your dad we were spending the night at the beach house."

Lainey hummed. "For some reason, I don't believe her."

A laugh escaped Eli's lips. "Me neither. But don't worry about that - let's just focus on the now, yeah?"

Lainey's breath caught in her throat when he touched her so softly. His hands against hers was something she needed like the air she breathed.

Forever grateful for Eli Moskowitz.

"Can I kiss you?" he asked softly.

Lainey nodded. "Please."

Eli smiled, his hand pressed against her face as he pulled her closer until their lips connected. The feeling of his soft lips against her gentle ones. He was so compassionate and kind, it almost made her want to cry.

"Are you alright?" Eli asked her.

"I'm fine, Eli."

She smiled as she ran her hands through his natural hair. It was growing longer now.

"Do you think you'll bring the Mohawk back?" Lainey asked.

"Do you want me to?"

"It's up to you."

"I know, but I want your opinions - princess." Eli smiled.

"I did really love the purple, but I understand if you won't want to go back to that."

"The purple it is."

"Really?"

"Sure, why not?"

Lainey looked to their left and let out a small laugh.

"What is it?" Eli asked.

"We're right at the altar."

"So?"

Lainey looked at her hands in his, Eli caught on and smiled.

"You know I do want to marry you someday, right?" Eli said.