Slow Dance

by Rainbow Rowell

Shiloh ran both hands through his hair. “And you’ll grow your hair out and let me braid it.” “No.” “Maybe,” Shiloh said. “You’re gonna owe me big.”

Shiloh wanted to touch his tattoo with her tongue to see if she could feel the lines. “Did the Navy come up with their core values after they met you?”

“But every time you tell me that we’re going to have problems in the future, all I think about is how lucky I am to have a future with you. Finally.”

“Aye, aye.” “Don’t be silly—I’m serious.” “‘Aye, aye’ is dead serious. It means ‘understood and will comply.’” “Oh. Then what do I say in return?” “You don’t say anything. You’re the senior officer.”

Shiloh looked in his eyes. “Really?” He nodded. “Don’t begrudge me this life.”

All you’re going to remember at the end is a blur of milk and honey.”