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all the way across the sound. The Captain made one last announcement, instructing all passengers to disembark.
    “Saved by the bell,” Owen said, still holding her close.
    “You were going to kiss me anyway.” She would only admit in the depths of her mind that she was disappointed he hadn’t.
    “You didn’t give me your last name. You left me no choice.”
    ~~~
    Owen picked up her bag and tucked Stacie against his hip as he led them down the steps. When they reached the main deck, they filed in with the other passengers. It was the most natural thing, to have her this close, his arm around her, like they belonged together. He had to think fast. In a couple of minutes, he’d be getting into the naval yard’s commuter van and she’d be going…somewhere else. He needed to figure out how to see her again.
    When Owen spotted the white van, he cursed his sense of responsibility. It would be a great day to play hooky and spend the day with Stacie. Unfortunately, the guys in the van would see him and skipping work to spend the day with a woman, no matter how amazing she was, just wasn’t his style. Anyway, she had responsibilities too and he guessed she wouldn’t be willing to shirk them. Maybe they could meet for lunch. Or he could cut his twelve-hour shift short to ride the ferry back with her, maybe have dinner.
    He guided her to the stairs that led to Harborside Fountain Park so they could have a little privacy. “Can I walk you somewhere?” he asked.
    “Actually, I’m getting back on the ferry.”
    “You’re not staying in Bremerton?” He must have looked as confused as he felt because she laughed a little.
    “Nope, I just came along for the ride.” She offered a cordial smile that was equivalent to being stabbed in the heart with a spoon. He longed for that passionate hunger she’d displayed the other night. “It was nice to meet you, Owen Landry.” She tried to pull back, but he held her tight, not ready to let her go.
    “Wait, why are you getting back on the ferry?” It was early in the morning. The ferry mostly carried commuters at this time of day. It seemed strange that a tourist would be on this early.
    “I paint. I rode the ferry to find a little inspiration.”
    “You’re an artist?”
    “Something like that,” she shrugged.
    “Stacie, listen. I want to see you again. I work a twelve-hour shift at the naval yard. I’ll be on the 7:55 ferry back to Seattle tonight. Will you meet me? Let me take you out for a late dinner?”
    “I don’t think so.” She turned to look at the ferry and as he followed her gaze, he noticed cars were boarding. If she was taking this ferry back, she’d have to board soon. The white government van parked in front of the terminal was the only vehicle still there, obviously waiting for him. He was going to have to let her go if they were both going to catch their rides.
    Pulling her close again, Owen claimed Stacie’s mouth with a kiss that was far from subtle. Her belly pressed against his erection, so there was no point hiding his desire. She didn’t resist, in fact, she gripped his shoulders as though hanging on for the ride of her life.
    The horn sounded from the van and Stacie pulled away. Owen cursed under his breath.
    “Is that your ride?” she asked, turning toward the van.
    “Yeah,” he said. “Meet me tonight. Baby, please. Right here? Promise me.” He felt desperate and hoped he didn’t sound that way. Owen had learned the hard way that women didn’t like desperate men. He’d have to put up a front to prove that his interest was genuine, not pathetic. Fake it til you make it, Landry.
    “Maybe,” she responded just as the horn sounded again. “You’d better go, it sounds like your ride is going to leave without you.” She lifted the heavy bag onto her shoulder and turned toward the ferry.
    Without thinking, Owen hooked her waist and pulled her back for another heated kiss. Her lips were soft and warm as their mouths danced. He could