It's terrifying and I'm not sure I can do it.
But I'm going to try.
Because the alternative is losing her, and that's not an option.
I look down at Everly sleeping against me, and something in my chest tightens.
This is fragile and precious, and I know the storm is coming.
But I'm not planning my escape.
I'm planning to stand my ground.
To prove to Diesel and Ciara and everyone else that I'm worth the risk.
And to prove to myself that I'm not the worst thing I've ever done.
That I'm capable of being loved without destroying it.
I pull Everly closer and close my eyes.
The fear is still there, humming under my skin.
But so is hope.
And right now, that's enough.
16
EVERLY
I wake up alone, and for a second the vulnerability hits hard.
Then I see my phone on the nightstand. There's a text from Rush.
Rush: Had to run early for club business. You okay?
I smile despite the hollow feeling in my chest.
Me: Yeah, I'm good. See you tonight?
Rush: Yeah. Miss you.
The words make my chest warm.
I get up and notice small things he did before he left.
My hoodie folded on the chair, the coffee cup he used rinsed and in the dish rack, the blanket straightened on the couch.
He was careful with my space even when leaving early.
That means something.
I shower and get dressed. My body aches in the best way.
Last night was intense, not just physically but emotionally.
I'm glowing from it, but I'm also vulnerable in a way I haven't been before.