Page 116 of Phoenix

“Why?”

“Because I want to be here. I want to be in Savannah. I didn’t even know if you’d want me after what I did, but I knew, regardless, I want to be here. Savannah feels like home to me. I’ve already got three interviews lined up in private practices here. One-on-one patient care.”

“And your writing?”

“I’m never giving that up. It’s still part of me and it always will be.”

“That’s my girl.”

She smiles with large tears dripping down her face. “I love you, Case. I need you to know that.

“I love you too. I told you in the pool that day and I meant it. I fell in love so quickly my head spun.”

“I did too, I was just too stubborn to admit it and just let it happen.” She sighs.

“But you left—again. Without saying a word—again.”

“I know. There’s nothing I can say to take it back. I don’t have an excuse other than I was just giving you a chance to love someone who could accept all parts of your life.”

“And you don’t?”

“I didn’t. Not at first. You are a protector in your career, but that carries over into your day-to-day life. That’s how I lost my father. I can’t bear the idea of losing you too. So, when I realized how much I loved you, I panicked. I just...whatever decision you make, whether you want me or if you tell me to fuck off, just know I love you.”

“Are you finished?”

She sits back, looking confused and defeated. “Yes.”

“Good because my decision was made the minute I saw you stand up in that crowd.”

I pull her from her chair and onto my lap, astride me, wrapping my arms around her body, keeping her as close as I can, not even caring about the sting in my thigh.

“You’re mine, Phoenix. You always have been. I just needed you to accept that.”

I push her hair from her face and kiss the tip of her nose.

“I’m yours,” she whispers. “And this is exactly where I belong; the only place I ever want to be.”

Our lips connect, blending with the heat of fire and the power of water.

The two forces that changed our lives forever as children now fuel the passion between us.

It’s simply perfect.

The way it’s meant to be.

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