Page 144 of Manny

“Same goes here,” Bandit agrees. “Whatever happens, we weather the storm together. Nobody has to do anythin’ alone ever again, okay?”

We both nod. “I’d like that,” Lace says. “A lot.”

“There’s nothing I want more than what I have in my arms right now,” I say. “Plus Eli, of course, when he gets back.”

Bandit smiles. “Feels like we were always meant to do this.”

“It does,” Lace sniffs, kissing my chest, then Bandit’s. “It really does.”

“I’ll love you forever,” I whisper.

“Yes, forever.” Lace snuggles in again.

“Never gettin’ rid of me, or Eli,” Bandit grunts.

I smile. My heart is free, and it’s the best feeling in the world. Nothing can compare to the feeling of being loved without conditions. I have so much more to give, and starting this new chapter of my life has been nothing short of blissful. I’m sure we’ll have bumps in the road, but we’ll climb those rocky hills,and when all is said and done? Love is all that really matters in the end.