she took a step forward and blinked , rubbing her eyes . `` would it be okay if i kissed you again ? '' just when she was certain he would n't , he accepted her silent invitation and brushed his mouth across hers . two days growth of beard , a bit of gray . i will come and go from one to the other . it could become a very bitter battle . chapter 24 one simple honest reply felt like someone had shoved a fist in my stomach . i have to snap out of it and find my father . 