Page 66 of One More Song

I laugh, wiping my eyes and pushing open the door. A little girl can certainly help lighten the mood. “Who taught you that word?”

“Synn. He said I was a badass.”

“Did he now?” I chuckle, shaking my head. “Well, there might be a few things I need to mention in this letter we’re writing.”

Chapter Twenty-Six

Ash

Ember’s caris in the driveway when I pull up and park the rental. But when I knock on the door, no one answers. I glance at the time and realize she’s probably with Millie and the kids at the park.

Good.

It gives me a few minutes to get settled, collect my thoughts. The past week I’ve been rehearsing what I was going to say in my head, but being here, now, I feel like a bundle of nerves are twisting inside my gut.

I get out of the car and sit on the front porch, twisting the letter she sent me in my hands. I’ve read it a thousand times, trying to read through the lines. Hoping beyond hope that I’m not being overoptimistic showing up here. I unfold the letter and scan the words again.

Dear Ash,

I didn’t find your note until tonight.

To be honest, I was hurt that you never said goodbye.

But I think that maybe it was because it hurt you as much as it hurt me to think about the finality of those words.

You said that you were a dying fire when you first met me, but the moment I saw you it was like the sun blazed in front of me. And then your touch...fire and heat...it blazed through me, burning down walls and insecurities.

You’re right, my life is here, with Cadence.

But there’s always a place in it for you.

I know that’s wishful thinking. But, you said you wished I was yours.

The truth is, I am yours, Ash.

My heart. My body. My soul.

I should have told you that before.

But it’s okay if this isn’t what you want.

I just wish I could see you one more time. Say goodbye.

Always,

Ember

P.S. Cadence misses you too.

I fold the letter and put it back in my pocket. The guys didn’t fight me when I told them I was coming here. They know how miserable I’ve been the last few weeks.

It was Dusky who finally told me to stop moping and go get her, to stop being a pansy and fight for what I want.

So here I am. Fighting for the best thing I’ve ever had in my life.

I just hope to God it isn’t too late.

“Ash,” Cadence’s cry of delight jolts me, and I see her running across the lawn toward me.

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