* Chapter 11 *

Mariah moved into Kevin’s house more permanently in the weeks that followed. They were reclaiming their relationship building a more durable foundation then before. Their friends watched as the love between the two was nurtured and grew day-by-day.

One afternoon, after a day of meetings and rehearsals, Kevin quietly let himself into the house. He knew Mariah was home. Her car was parked in the driveway and he could hear the faint sounds of Edwin McCain’s Messenger coming from the backyard. Mariah loved music in its raw form - piano and acoustic guitar being her favorite.

He walked to the sliding glass door and silently watched his girlfriend. She had fallen asleep reading Nicholas Sparks’ Message in a Bottle, a book they’d read aloud to one another a few months prior. Kevin likened his relationship with Mariah to that of Garrett and Theresa. Both were based upon a love brought together by fate and circumstance. The story had touched them both deeply.

As if on cue, the compact disc settled on track five. It was undoubtedly Kevin’s favorite on the album. Listening to the soothing violin intro, he strolled to the chaise lounge where Mariah lay. Much like Prince Charming did for Sleeping Beauty, he leaned to awaken her with a kiss - only to be surprised when her lips touched his first.

Kevin smiled at her ploy then help rearrange her body so that he could sit behind her. She rested against his chest while his arms folded around her abdomen. Not a word was spoken. They instead allowed the music act as their soundtrack, allow it to speak for them.

These are the moments I thank God that I’m alive
These are the moments I remember all my life
I found all I’ve waited for
And I could not ask for more

Kevin brushed the auburn curls away from her neck and started placing soft kisses there. His lips gradually lingered against her skin for longer periods of time. Mariah heard a quiet moan build within her. As it escaped her mouth, her fear and resolve went with it. She turned her face toward his giving him a kiss that left him without a doubt.

Her permission granted, Kevin lifted her into his arms, started into the house and climbed the stairs to the master bedroom. There he gently set her on the bed. He went to his stereo and slipped in a disc before laying beside her. “I love you,” he whispered. Before she could answer, her mouth was covered by his.

A million stars light
This beautiful night
This is not a night to die
Let me sing and dance
Beneath the sky
I have such love to give
I want a chance to live

Kevin had waited for this moment. After their reconciliation, they mutually decided that they would allow themselves to move at a pace that felt right. It couldn’t feel more right than this moment. Than this night.

Live
For the one I love
Love
As no one has loved
Give
Asking nothing in return

Mariah looked into Kevin’s eyes reading in their green depths the same love and passion she felt. He had become a part of her being long ago, something she couldn’t live without. The time apart had proven that to her. Soon he would have to leave again but she had no doubt that they would survive.

Thought this world tears us apart
We’re still together in my heart
I want the world to hear my cry
And even if I have to die
Love will not die
Love will change the world

Live
For the one I love
Love
As no one has loved
Give
Asking nothing in return

I’ll love until love wears me away
I’ll die and I know my love will stay
And I know my love will stay

Chapter 12
COULD NOT ASK FOR MORE
Chapter 2
I Could Not Ask For More
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