Page 95 of My Only

As I stepped out of our hug and made my way to the car, tears brimmed in my eyes. I quickly wiped them away with the backs of my hands when I heard…

“Ayla!”

Before I even turned around, I knew who it was.

I took a steadying breath, drying my face with my denim jacket’s sleeve before facing him.

Warren jogged down the steps toward me. “I know we already said our goodbyes,” he said, a little out of breath. “But I wanted to thank you, away from everyone else.”

I frowned slightly. “Thank me for what?”

“For being open to meeting me.”

I blinked at him a few times, not expecting that.

He sighed, rubbing a hand down his mouth before placing both hands on his waist. “I, uh… I know it wasn’t easy. It wasn’t easy for me either.”

I didn’t say anything, just nodded.

“I also lost a spouse years ago,” he revealed. “My wife. She passed from cancer.”

My stomach tightened at the words. “I’m so sorry,” I said sincerely.

“I appreciate that.” He nodded. “And my condolences to you.”

At that, I smiled, genuinely.

“My wife and I never had children,” he continued. “Didn’t get the chance to. But I really admire how much love you and your mother have for each other.”

His eyes softened.

“She told me you were a huge part of her healing after losing your father. And without her even saying it, I know you’re a priority to her. Which means you’re a priority to me too. And so is your happiness… with her being with me.”

My throat tightened as he went on.

“So, if you don’t like me, you can say it,” he added, a small, nervous chuckle following his words. “Although… it would really crush me.”

I snorted a laugh. “There’s nothing not to like, Warren. You’re great. Perfect for my mom.”

As soon as I said it, he let out the deepest breath, his head dipping slightly as he nodded. “Good. Great.”

“My mom picks really great guys, so…” I smiled. “I wasn’t expecting anything but great.”

A wide grin stretched across his face, and something about it warmed my heart.

“It was really great meeting you, Warren.”

I walked up to him, wrapping my arms around him in a hug. He embraced me back, strong and steady.

“Please take good care of her.”

“Of course,” he promised. “You have my word.”

The drive home was a quiet one.

No music. No audiobook. Just the soft hum of my tires on the pavement, my windows cracked open to let in the cool night air.

I needed stillness.

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