Page 91 of Anteros' Return

“Really?” she whispered as a single tear trickled down her cheek. I cupped the delicate curve of her neck, tracing her lower lip with the pad of my thumb. “Really. You’re it for me. You always have been.”

“I just get scared, Beckett.”

Warranted reaction.“Why are you scared, Em?”

“Because in a few days you’re heading back to Spain and…” Her voice faltered, her eyes reflecting the storm of words left unsaid.

“And I will be back. That is my promise to you.” I kissed the tip of her nose before slowly moving down to her lips, tasting the saltiness of her tears mixed with the same vanilla icing from earlier. “I don’t plan on breaking any promises to you or Liam. You have my word, and I hope you’ll trust it.”

“I trust you.” Her eyes searched mine intently, and in that quiet moment, I knew she trusted my words and that was everything I needed.

I ran my fingers through her hair as I watched her drift off to sleep. Her breathing had calmed as her chest gently rose and fell. I could have laid with her like this for hours, not sleeping, but simply admiring the woman in my arms. Years may have passed but this woman was still the only woman in the world to me. Her beauty captured me like nothing else. She took my breath away with every glance, every tender smile, and every kiss. I knew no matter how many years would pass, she would always captivate my heart.I’d always be hers.

“I love you, Emily Ryton,” I whispered, breaking the silence as a gentle smile graced her lips. I wasn’t sure if she heard me or if she was dreaming of something wonderful, but I didn’t care, all I ever wanted was to see her smile.

31

It had been a week since Liam’s birthday and Beckett had been back in Spain for a couple of days. He called every morning, afternoon, and night. It didn’t matter how long we were on the phone for, the call alone mattered, especially to Liam. He had been counting down the hours until the next video call.

“So, when is Dad back?” he asked as I stopped at the school gates.

“Soon, I hope. We just have to wait and see.” I kissed his forehead, waving him off as he sprinted through the double doors to meet Ashton who flashed me his gappy smile.

I had just got back in the car when my phone vibrated on the passenger seat. I already knew who it was as a smile crept upon my lips. I swiped open my phone, seeing his nickname light up the screen.

Good morning, cupcake.

How is my girl this morning?

I’m good. I just dropped Liam at school. He was asking about you.

Tell my boy I’ll be back soon. I miss you both x

We miss you too x

I’m looking forward to falling asleep next to you again. It sucks sleeping alone after being with you.

I have to admit, I’ve not slept too well since you’ve been gone.

Join the club, cupcake.

I have a question for you…

And what might that be?

My parents want to meet Liam when I’m back, are you good with that?

Yeah, I think it’s time he knew his grandparents. They can come to the house for dinner.

They’ll love that. I’ll let them know when I call them later :)

I have to go to a physical now. I will video call you and Liam tonight.

I’m looking forward to it.

I love you, cupcake x

“And then I scored a hat trick!” Liam buzzed, telling Beckett about his PE lesson. “Nobody could even get close to me! I was like you when you scored that hat trick against the Valencia Thunderhawks! My teacher said he could tell I was your son!”

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