Chapter 349

Broderick simply reached out and gently ruffled Leslie's hair. "Dummy." His voice held a warmth that said more than words ever could. "Leslie, I wouldn't." This was the girl he wanted to marry, the reason he couldn't let go. He'd never treat her like that. Truth was, he was already drawn to her-totally smitten. Leslie's lips curved into a soft smile. Yeah, she believed him. Broderick wouldn't. "You're really something, Ricky." And just like that, that strange feeling crept up on him again. Was Leslie truly in love with him-or just the version she wished him to be? He paused by the car, reached out, and gently tilted her chin up. Leaning in, he closed the space between them, his gaze intense, unwavering. "Leslie, listen to me. I'm Broderick. I'm not some stand-in, not trying to be anyone else. If you're going to fall for someone, make sure it's actually me. And me-once I fall, I'm in for the long haul. All or nothing." Leslie let out a light laugh, and instead of replying, she kissed hi