Page 29 of Rule
“Yeah, well…” She shrugs. “It’s tough sometimes.”
As we sit there, Scarlet offering a compassionate ear while Raven shares her feelings, I admire the woman I love. She's able to connect with people, even those who are difficult to reach, like my sister. And though the road ahead may be long, I know that together, we'll be able to help Raven heal.
"If there's anything I can do to help or support you, please don't hesitate to let me know."
My sister closes her book, her eyes meeting Scarlet's, this time more guarded. There's a flicker of vulnerability in her gaze, but it's quickly replaced by her signature defiance. "I'll keep that in mind," she replies, attempting nonchalance.
"Great," Scarlet smiles softly, then glances at me. She knows this is just the beginning, but it's a start. A connection has been made, and I'm hopeful that, with time and effort, these two incredible women in my life will come to understand and care for each other as deeply as I care for them both.
As I watch Scarlet offering her support and understanding, I'm struck by the depth of my love for her. Her kindness knows no bounds, and it's in moments like these that I feel truly grateful to have her in my life.
"Scarlet, can we talk outside for a moment?" I ask, trying to keep my tone casual despite the emotions bubbling beneath the surface.
"Of course," she replies, gently squeezing Raven's hand before standing up. "I'll be right back, okay?"
"Sure," Raven murmurs, offering a small smile.
We step out onto the back patio, the cool evening breeze brushing against our skin. The sun has just dipped below the horizon, casting an ethereal glow on Scarlet's face. She looks at me with curiosity, her dark eyes searching mine.
"Tristan, what's going on?" she asks, concern lacing her voice. “Do you think Raven is just humoring me?”
"Nothing bad, I promise," I assure her, taking both of her hands in mine. "And no, she is responding to you. I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate you being here for my sister. It means the world to me."
Her cheeks flush a delicate pink, and she casts her gaze downward. "It's nothing, really. I just want to help her as best as I can."
"Scarlet," I say firmly, lifting her chin so our eyes meet. "It's not 'nothing.' You have this incredible ability to connect with people, even when they're at their lowest. And seeing you help Raven...it only makes my love for you deeper and more profound."
"Tristan," she breathes, her eyes widening. But before she can say anything else, I lean in and capture her lips in a passionate kiss. She responds immediately, her arms wrapping around my neck as we lose ourselves in the moment.
As our lips dance together in perfect harmony, I pour every ounce of love and gratitude I feel for this woman into the kiss. And when we finally break apart, both breathless and exhilarated, I know in my heart that Scarlet is the one for me – not just for now, but forever.
"Scarlet," I whisper, resting my forehead against hers. "I love you."
Her eyes shimmer with unshed tears, and she smiles, her voice barely audible as she murmurs, "I love you too, Tristan."
“Eww, gross!”’ Raven calls out. “I can hear you, you know.”
Scarlet’s eyes dance with amusement, and she grabs my hand, lacing our fingers together. “Rain check.”
“Bummer,” I mutter, but follow her back inside, hoping to cash that check sooner rather than later.
Leaving the two women to chat some more, I drift out and make my way further down the hall to my father’s office.
“Hey,” I mutter, leaning in the doorway.
“What’s up?” he asks, glancing up briefly before returning to his case file.
“Any news on Beth or Caitlin?”
He stops writing and leans back in his chair. “Beth has been arrested for Fields’s murder, and Caitlin has been suspended from the police force, pending an investigation. She poses a threat to Scarlet, so she is under twenty-four-hour supervision."
“House arrest?” I ask with a frown.
“Nope. The JSP special,” he says with a smirk.
Letting out a soft laugh, I nod approvingly. “Send me the bill for the hired help. I need to know Scarlet is completely safe from those bitches.”
“Done and done. You don’t have to worry. Caitlin knows she can’t even breathe in Scarlet’s direction right now.”
