Page 64 of A Change Of Heart

"I'd say that was a close guess.So that would make Nicole around fifteen or so."

He picked it up and studied it for a moment."It's very well done.This should make Henry happy—although those two words are an oxymoron."

"You're right, but perhaps not for long."Stephanie turned to the next page and brought her palm to her heart."Oh wow, this is such a lovely picture."

Nicole had drawn herself as a young girl around five or six, down at the beach holding hands with her parents.Looked like they were swinging her off the ground—laughing, happy faces on all three.

"It beautiful," Jason said."This alone is worth a thousand memories.Let's hope it can melt the iceberg around Henry's bitter heart."

Stephanie placed her hand over his."Now we know.Nicole wanted this journal to give her own family a reminder that when she was young, there were happy times."

"That's true."He kissed her knuckles."This could be the missing key to unlock her father's heart."

"We can pray on that."She glanced at him with certainty.She had faith in him, and that made him feel like he could move mountains.

No further words were needed—they both understood how much power this journal contained.With any luck, Nicole could have a future after all.

"It's very potent, isn't it?"she whispered.He leaned closer to her.

"Yes.I also believe that Nicole is now willing to do anything to live for her son and husband.It's no longer about pride."

"So, we need to give this to her immediately.We can't let Henry know.The journal is full of special memories for her son and husband to keep and if he gets his hands on it..."

"It would only take a minute of rage for him to destroy everything."Jason finished the sentence.

"We should give Nicole the originals, but we could photograph them for safety,” Stephanie suggested.

"I agree.”Jason traced the journal.His cousin had talent that maybe she could tap into again someday.“Nicole can decide how to proceed.Our job is done for the moment."

She turned quickly, putting her arms around his neck.She smelled of subtle floral perfume.“Hey, I’ve got an idea.If Rhys could say something simple about each photo, like how much he loves his mommy and wants her to live, that kind of thing—it might have quite an impact.”

“We could suggest that to them.”Jason nodded.“It's plausible and wouldn't take much."

"I hope so, Jason.I would hate to be disappointed in Henry for not coming around.He has a heart, I know he does."

"Okay, no more brainstorming for tonight.Just one question for you."Jason moved in closer."Has anyone ever told you that you're not only beautiful, but smart?"

"No, just you."

They stared at each other for a few long, breathtaking seconds then she stood up and handed him the journal.

Jason smiled through his disappointment."This was quite a breakthrough, and quite the night."He lifted a hand and traced her flushed cheek."Good job, Steph."

"With your help, of course."

"I'll give Heu a call in the morning and keep you informed so we can do this together."

"Thank you.I hope this all works out."

"In more ways than one."Jason stood, placed the folder on the table, then took her by the hands and pulled her up."One more hug before I go ?"

***

When he drew her close, she didn't object.Feeling Jason’s arms around her seemed so natural that her mind went blank, a and her bones caved as she melted into him.

She tilted her head, her eyes searching his.Then, she got lost in his kiss.

After they broke apart, her eyes were damp, her insides spinning.Was she going to fall in love with him all over again?She wanted to, but what about her plans? He'd already said he'd go too, but then once again, she'd be trapped.In a nice way, but at the age of thirty it was time she had her independence.

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