Homelander tightened his arms around Hope and felt the warmth of her body against his.
Hope rose on tiptoe and kissed him without hesitation.
It was a passionate, lingering kiss, hungry for more.
The salty sea breeze mingled with the lingering richness of red wine on their lips.
Homelander's hand moved across Hope's back. Her breathing quickened, her body grew hot, and she nearly went limp in his arms.
Just as they lost themselves in the kiss and Homelander was about to take things further—
Bzz—bzz—bzz—
Hope's phone began vibrating at the worst possible moment.
The irritating buzz sounded especially harsh on the quiet beach.
Hope stiffened slightly, and some clarity returned to her hazy eyes.
She ignored the phone and stared straight at Homelander.
"Daniel... I don't want to play those boring games where adults keep testing each other."
"I like you. No, I love you." Hope's confession was direct and passionate, with all the boldness of a California girl. "From the moment I first saw you, I knew I wanted you by my side."
"I want us to be together. What about you? What's your answer?"
Hope watched Homelander nervously, searching his face for the slightest change.
It suited Hope's independent nature. Once she understood her own feelings, she saw no reason to hold back.
"That's what I wanted to say too, Hope." Homelander met her eyes with a steady gaze. "You are the best thing I, Daniel, could ever have found in this world. From this moment on, I'm yours."
At his answer, a radiant smile spread across Hope's face, as though a tremendous weight had lifted from her shoulders.
Bzz—bzz—
The phone in her bag kept vibrating relentlessly.
Hope frowned in annoyance and checked it. The name flashing on the screen was "Father."
"I have to