Page 90 of One Chance to Stay

Resting the rifle against his armchair, he got to his feet. He leaned in, presenting a cheek. A gesture this big required morethan a peck. I wrapped my arms around his torso, giving him a squeeze.

“Calm your horses.”

I tried lifting him off his feet as he writhed. I tolerated his scoffing. He tolerated my shenanigans. Somehow, we co-existed, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

“Mister.” I set him down, resting my head on his shoulder. “I love you.”

“I know.”

Poking him in the side, he grumbled. “I love you, too.”

We hadn’t reached a happily ever after, but as he kissed my nose, I could see our future. I imagined that diploma in my hand, marking the next stage of life. When I thought about the crowd, I could see him and Grace cheering me on. We’d reach our forever, but for now, we’d focus on enjoying the right now.

“Want to help me study for my test?”

“After dinner.” He reached back and picked up the rifle. “I made lasagna.”

Dinner, a study date, and the man I loved? This made almost dying worth it.

Love Firefly Valley? Don’t stop now.

Grab More Chance to Stay.