Page 99 of In Death, Love Survives
“Where is home?”
“Closer to Roper State.”
“That’s why you took the job?”
“One of the reasons, yeah.”
I take her hands and lead her to the waiting view.
“How long have you been there?”
“Not long. I had to pick things up quickly when the original head of psychiatry left.”
“You’re what? Twenty-eight?”
“Yeah,” she says with a squeeze of my hand.
I can tell she’s used to being closed off when anyone wants to talk about her. The layers I still need to peel back are vast, but the more I learn, the more I find out just how strong my Nova girl is.
I’ll give her some time.
“We’re almost there. Just a little bit further.”
We walk in comfortable silence for the remaining distance until Nova gasps.
Her other hand clings to her chest as her mouth gapes open.
“What do you think?” I ask.
She faces me completely, with bright eyes and a beautiful smile.
“It’s beautiful.”
“Just like you.”
Her smile grows.
“I’m glad you like it here. I thought you would.”
“Was there a chance I wouldn’t like flowers?” she teases.
“It’s just good to get confirmation.”
Nova focuses back on the wildflowers.
“What kind are these?” she asks.
“I’m not sure, actually. Some lavender is in there.”
She hums as she soaks in the view.
“Tell me your favorite.”
“Peonies.”
“What else?”
“Sunflowers. White roses…”
