Page 170 of Where Broken Wings Fly

“Next weekend it is,” he decides.

“I can’t wait to go camping with you.”

With his salad finished, we link hands and walk outside together. My garden has been transformed, and as the sun turns golden and fiery on the horizon, the hundreds of little lantern lights strung outside flick on.

They light the whole cabin in a cosy, warm glow. With his bonfire raging, Killian turns his attention to the barbecue next. Zach is sitting down with Aalia at a table, holding Amie in one arm while nursing a beer.

“Where’s Arianna?” I worry aloud.

Micah points over towards the lake. “Right there.”

She’s playing with Johan near the lake’s edge with a huge, life-sized Jenga set that Killian built himself. He presented it to the kids with far too much pleasure.

“Jesus. That thing is huge.”

“It’s Killian sized,” Micah jokes.

“So… huge.”

“Pretty much.”

Seeing everyone happy and smiling makes my throat thicken with emotion. I wish I could take a mental snapshot and treasure this moment forever. This is what I spent so many years longing for—this scene right here.

“Willow!” Ryder’s voice calls.

I catch sight of his crop of curly hair as he arrives, dressed casually in jeans and a loose blue t-shirt. His hand is tightly held by another man. I demanded that he invite his mysterious boyfriend to attend.

Tall and lean, the boyfriend’s face is set in sharp, angular lines, framing kind blue eyes that are highlighted by the buzzcut on his head. He’s handsome but holds himself with an air of authority.

I walk down the steps to intercept them. “Hey! Thanks for coming.”

Ryder gestures to his boyfriend. “Willow, this is Ethan.”

I immediately pull him in for a hug. “It’s lovely to finally meet you.”

He offers me a genuine smile that softens his threatening exterior. “Likewise, Willow. I’ve heard a lot about you.”

“Oh God. All bad?”

“Not at all. It’s about time there was a female around here to keep these cavemen in check.” He gestures towards the guys, all three of them now gathered around the bonfire.

“I’m not sure anyone is capable of that.”

“I’m sure if anyone can, it’s you.” His smile falters for a second before sliding back into place. “How are you settling into life in Briar Valley?”

“I feel at home here.” I match Ryder’s smile. “If you’ll excuse me.”

Leaving them to meet the others, I’m bombarded by a rush of people arriving all at once. Doc, Rachel, Miranda and their kids all give me individual hugs. I’m presented with a giant bouquet of flowers, and Aalia rushes to take them inside.

“The place looks amazing!” Miranda gushes.

“Thank you. It’s taken some time, but we got there.”

Doc casts an eye around. “Hell of a lot better than before. You’ve really made this place a home. I’m happy for you, Willow.”

I take his hand and squeeze. “I wouldn’t be here if you hadn’t saved my life.”

He waves me off. “It’s nothing.”

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