Page 218 of The Path to Loving Him
“It’s a burden.”
“The fuck it is,” he says. “You are not a burden. This, what we have, is not a burden. Don’t ever think that. This is a partnership. This is what real love is about.” He lifts my chin again. “You matter so much to me, and whatever might happen to you, I want to be a part of it—the good and the bad. That’s love. What that fucker texted you? That’s nothing but a sour man trying to take someone down. He’s jealous because his life isn’t where he wants it to be. Those words are not about you. They’re a reflection of him. You, my love, are perfect.”
My love.
It’s two words, but they’re words I’ve never heard before.
Words I’ve never been called before.
Yet they send a thrill through me.
A happy, gleeful, cheerful thrill.
Because . . . he’s right. Everything Ryland’s saying is right. I can’t let Nathan’s words get me down because they’re not about me. They’re a reflection of him.
I nod. “You’re right, they’re a reflection of him, not me.”
“Keep saying that to yourself over and over again. Anytime you think about what he’s said, keep that thought in your mind. It’s a reflection of him, not you.”
I tip my head back, and I press a soft kiss to his jaw. “Thank you.”
“You don’t need to thank me, Gabby. This is why I’m here. I’m here to love you, protect you, and make sure no one even comes close to hurting you or anyone close to you.” He bringsour foreheads together. “You’re mine, Gabby. And I plan on keeping it that way. I plan on keeping that mind clear. I plan on making sure every goddamn day that you know you’re worth and how special you are.”
I’m his.
He’s my shield.
He’s my strength.
He’s the confidence and the reassurance I need in my life that I am the woman I’ve become on my own.
I cup his cheek, my nose rubbing against his. “I love you, Ryland.”
“I loveyou, Gabby.”
Gabby:He’s it. He’s the one I’m marrying.
Bower:You’re just now figuring that out?
Gabby:It was confirmed last night.
Bower:Last night, huh? *wiggles eyebrows*
Gabby:Nothing like that.
Bower:What happened?
Gabby:Can’t tell you because I know you’ll tell Bennett, and Bennett doesn’t need to know with the Bombers coming up on their last few games that they need to win.
Bower:I swear I won’t tell him.
Gabby:Promise?
Bower:Promise.
Gabby:I’m counting on you.
Bower:I promise, Gabby. My loyalty belongs to you first and foremost.
