Chapter 36
Driving in the arid Mojave Desert through California, Maclean and Ryan passed a 134-foot landmark sign that displayed the night's balmy temperature on a thermometer.
"I know we have to keep moving," Maclean said, turning toward Ryan in the passenger seat. "But I want to pull into one of the parking lots for those little restaurants over there, lean the seats down, lay on top of you, and smother you with a thousand smooches."
"A thousand, huh? I'll count to make sure you don't forget any." Ryan laughed and tucked his hand between Maclean's right leg and the seat cushion.
"If I miss a single one, I have to start completely over."
"Can you be with me, Maclean?"
"I am with you. I am certain about my feelings, are you?"
"I am rock solid," Ryan answered.
"Let's stop for on
