by Anna Todd
You pinched his cheek, receiving the cutest mug from him. Bowing your head in your lap, you were dying of feels. He was too cute to resist. You had to stretch up and kiss him.
“I love you too. I was being childish and jealous.”
“You were.”
You gasped.
“But that’s another argument for another day.” He smirked. “Besides, it’s sexy to see you get all jealous.”
“Go back upstairs,” you ordered with a pointed finger.
Justin climbed over the couch to sit beside you. Grabbing your waist, he pulled you into him.
You pressed your hand against his chest, trying to form some distance. “Go upstairs. You’re annoying.”
He couldn’t take you seriously, and you knew you couldn’t be taken seriously. Small chuckles were leaving your mouth; Justin fed on your easy vibes. As he ran his fingers up your shirt and tickled you, you flattened against the couch with unrestrained laughter.
“Justin!” you managed to shriek.
He hovered over you. “Huh?”
“Go away.” You pulled your shirt down from the tickle attack.
Lowering his body onto yours, he pecked your lips. “Come with me.” He kissed you again before you could properly respond.
Your lips did the talking for you. They didn’t have to speak. They just had to perform, welcoming him on top of you. Your fingers glided behind the back of his head and smoothed over his hair. As the kiss escalated, you wrapped your legs around his waist. Securing you around him, he stood up.
“You’re coming with me,” he began, but you were too impatient to wait. Your lips locked on his again, blocking out his senses as you came around the couch. Feeling your back press into the wall, you halted a moment, needing to breathe. You gasped and tightened your hold around him. His craving lips went to your neck, where he intended on leaving claims. Throwing your head back, you were melting under his roughening touch. You loved it and were becoming hazed by lust.
“Let’s go upstairs,” you groaned breathlessly, wiggling against him.
He released you. You held his face in your hand, kissing him one last time before you pushed away from him and ran upstairs. “I want you. Hurry up,” you provoked as you skipped steps, rushing to your bedroom. Hearing him behind you only increased the fervor.
When you both hit your bedroom, you took Justin by the hem of his shirt and directed him to the bed. Kissing your forehead, your nose, then your cheek, he displayed his innate sweetness before you took the next step in your relationship.
After the back of your legs hit the bed, you looked into his beautiful eyes. A part of you grew wary knowing what was about to happen, but at the same time you wanted this. When he pulled his shirt up his toned body, it was quite clear how much you wanted this.
“We don’t have to.” He lifted your chin with the most tender stroke. “We can—”
“I want to. I want you.” You lay down on the bed.
YOU CALLED OUT JUST IN’S name, but got nothing in return.
“Figures,” you said with a pout.
Setting your purse down, you spotted your thirteenth heart: You’re so close, babe. You’re just not there yet. Follow the rose petals.
You obey and follow the romantic path all the way up the steps. You’ve been on this scavenger hunt for almost three hours. A woman can be only so patient. Going into the room where those beautiful memories were made, you find on the bed a red gown with a plunging neckline. Around the beautiful garment lay diamonds in earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and two watches. This man really gave you choices. At the end of the white bed were two tan shoe boxes.
Wow, he didn’t have to do all of this, you think. He knows materials things mean nothing to you. His time is the most valuable and cherished part of your bond.
You were a bit dumbfounded to not see a heart anywhere. Lifting the gown and looking under it, you didn’t find anything. So, he’s going to make you hunt for this one. Your hands stuck to your hips as you spun around looking. Checking behind pictures and opening drawers, you became frustrated.
“Think like Justin.” Your fingertips play at your lips. “Hm . . .” You stared at the shoe boxes. You quickly dove across the bed and flipped open one.
Behold, inside was a black heart—your fourteenth.
“I’m good. I’m good.” You got off the bed to prance.
This heart read, You’ve come to the end of the hunt, but we’ll never come to the end of us. I’m lucky to call you my wife. I’ll cherish you for the rest of my life. Be dressed and come outside at five.
Looking at your phone, you saw that 4:00 p.m. was approaching fast. You’ve been roaming and traveling and had just enough time to freshen up for your man.
After another shower for the day, you were glamorously decked in Justin’s gifts. You loved everything he got for you. At the same time, they felt over the top, but you knew if you didn’t wear them, he would get offended.
To pass some time, you rested on the bed, sorting through the helpful hearts with an appreciative smile. This is clearly what he was working on last night—he always exceeded your expectations. Why would you ever think he forgets or doesn’t pay attention to what’s around you? He truly treasured you. It’s been eight years since you first met, and every day he regards you with that same sparkle in his eyes. The same sparkle that makes you a little bashful. You never want that sensation to weaken. You shiver at his soft touch. The smoothness of his voice makes you melt. His kisses steal your breath, and when you two make love, it’s ecstasy.
Searching for a heart with a blank side, you found one on the burgundy heart. You wanted to write a message of your own for him, but first, you needed a pen. Looking around, you spied one on the dresser. Let’s see if you can walk in these heels . . .
From the bed to the dresser became a successful trial. Dropping the heart from your hands, you watched it drift and slice through the air until it came to a halt on the dresser. Grabbing the pen, you glowed as you composed a riddle of your own.
As you ventured to your former spot on the bed, your attention focused out the window to the swaying palm trees. Smiling at more memories, you sat on the bed again, spreading your fingers along the soft, white comforter. As you were doing so, you detected different-colored petals. Some of these weren’t here when you went to take your shower. There was a mix of peach, cream, red, and salmon: gratitude, appreciation, romance, and desire.
Who’d been in here?
“Justin?” You stood in your high heels. “Baby?”
You followed the trail out of the room. Looking both ways, you scanned for any shadows, but you got nothing.
Following the petals, you continued. Walking to the stairway, you bent down to retrieve one. Rubbing the velvety smoothness between your fingertips, you enjoyed the floral scent of the house. As you admired the spiral staircase, your gown draped over the first step.
The large crystal chandelier hung beautifully from the elevated ceiling. You wanted to reach out and touch the decor; instead you reveled in the chandelier’s colorful reflections on the walls. You loved this place. Taking the rail, you slowly came down the stairs. Pausing and gathering your silky dress, assuring your safety, you resumed. Carefully watching yourself, you checked your watch. It was 4:59 p.m. Maybe you should jump on the banister and slide the remainder of the way.
Your heels clicked at the bottom of the stairs, and dropping your gown from your hand, you glided on the Spanish tiles. At 5:01 p.m., grabbing the cold doorknob, you twisted it, taking a second to prepare for him.
Opening the door, you were finally reunited with your husband.
Justin looked as handsome as ever. He knew you loved when he wore his hair down, but it was perfectly styled in a quaff with his sides perfectly cut. His tailored, dark navy suit with peeks of his neck tattoos gave you life. Sometimes, you wonder why he chose you, but you’re beyond blessed that he did.
Widening the door, you bit your lip, loving his awed expression.
You were undeniably checking him out as well.
“I finally found you.” You knew you were glowing.
“I saw you first.” He beamed through the words.
You drifted back into the memory of that holiday party. Watching your dress as you closed the door, you came down the pathway. Meeting you halfway, Justin held out his hand to help you. You took it, having him guide you into his arms. Holding his face, you planted one of the most rewarding kisses. You felt complete again.
“You are so handsome, babe.” You stepped back to get the whole view. He confidently posed for you, making you both laugh.
“I’m nothing without my better half. You’re insanely gorgeous, baby girl. Are you hungry?”
“Yes.”
“Will you join me for dinner?” He shifted, opening a hand to point to the limo.
“Do you really think I’m letting you out of my sight for the rest of the night?” You laughed, heading to the opened limo door. “Thank you.”
Ducking into the stretch limo, Justin came beside you, leaving your driver to shut the door. Pulling your legs into his lap, Justin rubbed them with a light massage. Your hand massaged over his. He seemed to be thinking about something.
“What’s up?”
“Thinking.”
“Talk to me.”
“I’m going to.” He tucked the loose strands of your hair behind your ear before kissing your temple. Closing your eyes beneath the caress, you held his free hand, resting your head on his shoulder. He rested his head on yours. “You’re not tired, are you?”
“No, I’m happy.” You brought his hand to your lips to kiss. “Happy anniversary, baby.”
“Happy anniversary.”
AT THE RESTAURANT, a million camera flashes blinded you as you left the limo.
“Hold on.” Justin bent down for your dress. “Let me help you out. I’ll be damned if you fall because of this dress and because you can’t see.”
You look at your husband being all protective. Lifting the dress past your ankles, you scooted to the edge of your seat.
Justin stood outside the door waiting for you to take his outstretched hand. “You got it?” he asked once you grasped his hand.
You nodded and watched your head as you got out. He laced your fingers and used his free hand to block the flashes.
“You look beautiful!”
“Look this way!”
“Over here!”
“Happy anniversary!”
You mimicked Justin’s actions, trailing behind him and Dave. Another bodyguard was besides you, blocking the outstretched hands. Justin saw one and stopped walking.
“Aye!” he snapped. “Don’t touch her.”
“I didn’t!” some guy denied.
“Don’t even reach your hand out to. Don’t do it.” Justin’s hand came to the small of your back. He guided you ahead of him, assuring your passage.
“I got it, Justin,” Dave declared.
“Do you?” Your husband’s voice had sass. You couldn’t lie—his protective ways are sexy.
The restaurant was elegant. You’d never been there before, but the smell of its Italian food guaranteed this was going to be amazing. The eatery was beautifully lit; you loved the candlelit tables and the fireplace set far back.
Justin came to your side. “You okay?”
“I’m fine.”
“Those guys can be freaks.” He ran his hand over his hair.
“Reservations for Bieber?” The maître d’ was prepped and ready to go. “Right this way.” His voice was overly proper as he led you. Black-and-white–dressed waiters and waitresses were plating your table.
“I ordered our favorites.” Justin bumped his hip into yours. His knowingness was impressive.
“You’re good,” you complimented.
Coming behind and around you, Justin wanted to be the one to pull out your seat. Seeing how much it meant to him, one of the waiters backed away.
Sitting down, you rested your napkin in your lap. “Thank you, my love.”
Taking his seat, Justin waited for your waiter to finish filling your glass and then raised his in a toast. When you picked up yours, he smiled. “To my precious wife. I love you more than I did yesterday and less than tomorrow. Happy anniversary. Here’s to five hundred more.”
You clinked your glass against his.
“Five hundred?” You took a sip of the champagne. “I don’t know if I can deal with you for that long.”
“I’ve had hours to think about what I want to say to you.” He paused, a rare shyness overcoming him.
Wanting to ease his nerves, you said, “Can I say something first?” You looked past the burning candles between you.
Smiling, he gave you the floor and took a sip of water.
“That hunt today, it was the most romantic thing someone has ever done for me.” You blushed, tucking your hair away. “I love how you remember exact details of our firsts. I never thought a girl like me could grab your attention and keep it for eight years. I look at you each day with more love than the last. Your corny little jokes make me laugh for some reason.” You shrugged when he played hurt. “But it’s a pure laugh each time. So many people want to dig into our relationship, but we’re pretty simple. We do what average couples do. I love the simplicity of our relationship. I love just lying in bed, eating junk, and watching movies with you. I love blasting music and dancing crazy with you.”
He smirks. “Don’t do it in your socks anymore, because you fell the other night.”
“In my defense, I jumped on the bed, but my feet slipped, okay? I landed on my butt. That’s what happened.”
Justin laughed, turning away from you.
To throw his clumsiness in his face, you decided to bring up another story. “Remember when you fell trying to get me with the water gun? Socks. What about the glass doors?” Breaking your smile, you dove back into your speech for him. “Falling in love with you was never in the plan. It came with no warning signs. One day, I woke up thinking I love you too much. It was odd to finally call you my boyfriend, but I wasn’t content with anything else. I needed you closer to me.”
Justin looked at you with his soulful eyes. “I had a crush on you from the first time I saw you. What I love is that we didn’t put any label on us. It’s like you just knew you were mine. You knew you were my girlfriend and I knew I was yours. I wanted to be yours. No girl has ever captured my attention like you. I knew you were special from the jump.”
“You’re my husband now and you’re my best friend. I can talk to you about anything. No matter what it is, I don’t feel awkward. You make me a better person. I love who I am with you. I love the man you are to and for me. We may argue over silly things, but at the end of the day, you know I have your back one hundred percent. I can feel a million emotions when I look at you. You can ease my nerves, yet give my skin goose bumps. You can be so soft and sweet, but tell me how it is when I need it. I appreciate you and I need to tell you that more. Falling in love is easy. Even though I fell ungracefully,” you joked, attaining a smile from him. “Falling in love with you every day is a powerful feeling, a powerful happiness. I want to give you the world for making me feel this way.”
He pulled his lips into his mouth as he deliberated on your words. The candle’s flame accented another sparkle in his eyes. “The night I first saw you”—he blushed, looking down for a second, then reconnected with you—“I spilled my drink.” He shook his head through an embarrassed scoff. “Ryan grabbed my glass before I destroyed my mom’s floors. You were wearing this beautiful pinkish, sequined dress. Your hair was curled. The most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen. And the heels you were wearing . . . man . . . You were born to stand out. It would have been weird to ask you right then and there if you had a boyfriend, but once we hung out that next week, I was relieved that you didn’t. I didn’t understand why you didn’t, but I’m not complaining.” Justin shrugged with an adorable frown. “I know you were going insane with this scavenger hunt,
sorry about that.”
“I was only going insane because I missed you.”
He reached over and took your hand. “No words I recite to you can ever describe how much you mean to me. No words can ever illustrate how beautiful your heart is, how beautiful your soul is, and how beautiful you are as a person. In order to do that, I would have to define you and give a limit to you, but I cannot do that. There’s no limit to your beauty. There’s surely no limit to my love for you. It frightens me how my love for you expands each day. I’m aware that my life isn’t the easiest to handle, but you handle it with grace. I know you could care less about the spotlight. That’s what I adore about you the most. That doesn’t mean anything to you. People think that all that they see of me is all that I am. That’s not true. They know what I show. You know me beyond the lights. You know the true me. You know my weaknesses and strengths. What you don’t know is how much you’ve helped me grow as a person. I have less weaknesses and more strengths, because of you. You build me up. I love how we’ve grown together. You’re a part of me, my heart, my mind, my soul. You’re the better half of me. That’s when I start to think . . . I want more.” He showed his uneasiness.
“Yeah, babe?” You attentively waited for him to go on.
“I want more . . . I want to build a family with you. I don’t know if you’re ready yet. We can wait, but that’s what I want next. I would love little me’s and you’s running around. There deserve to be more people like you in this world.” He fiddled with his thumbs.
“I wasn’t expecting you to say that.” You looked into your lap and pulled out the paper heart you had written on. Upon retrieving it, you sat it on the table, then looked to your husband. You watched him as you slid it across the table; he looked confused. Taking your hand back into your lap, you nodded for him to pick up the heart. Peering down as you tucked your hair behind your ear, you watched him through your eyelashes.
“I thought I was the one spreading out hearts.” He grabbed the paper and held it closer to the candles to read.
“Just read it.”
“ ‘This hunt was cute and sweet. Clearly, firsts hold such value to us. I’m excited to experience more with you. In you, I’ve found everything I have ever wanted. In me, you have a bundle of joy.’ ”