Chapter 26

Charlie returned the kiss, and before they knew it, they were losing control again. Owen tore himself away and pressed his forehead to Charlie’s. “I really like you.”

“That’s good. Because I really like you, too.”

Owen’s heart slammed against his ribs. It wasn’t simply the words, it was the way Charlie had said them. There was a promise in his voice. A promise of a future.

“Since I told you my secrets, can I ask you something?”

Owen looked into his warm brown eyes. “Of course.”

“Why did you decide to teach the GED class?”

He took a deep breath. “Well, that’s a good question. There are a lot of reasons—I hate seeing kids drop out at school. I know what a struggle school can be for some. And I believe that coming back when you’re an adult is a courageous thing and I want to help.”

“And?”

Owen’s eyes widened. “How did you know there was another reason?”

Charlie’s lips curved into a small smile and he shrugged. “I can just read you.”