I take a breath, feeling it settle all the way into my bones. For the first time in a long time, I’m not shrinking my wants to survive someone else’s moods.
I look at him. Really look.
“Can I stay a little longer?” I ask.
His answer is immediate, unguarded. “As long as you want.” Then, after a beat—softer, like it surprises even him—“I’ve been careful with you.”
I look up.
“Careful how?”
His jaw works. “Not asking for what I want. Because I didn’t want to put anything on you before you were ready.”
His eyes meet mine. Steady. Open.
“But I do want you, Allie. I just needed to know you were choosing it, too.”
Something shifts then—not pressure, not expectation.
Just recognition.
He was never holding back because he didn’t want me.
He was holding back because hedid.
“You don’t have to protect me from wanting you,” I say quietly. “I’m not afraid of that.”
“Good.” His voice stays steady. But the need is written in his eyes—quiet, held, finally allowed.
I set down my coffee mug, and he follows, wrapping me in his strong arms. “Stay with me for awhile longer. I need you, Austin. The way you need me.”
“Always.”
Not a promise.
A choice.
There are still loose ends. Trevor. The farm. My grandpa, who deserves a phone call and the truth.
But for the first time, I know something with certainty?—
I will face all of it on my own terms.
I’m safe.
I’m wanted.
And I haven’t lost myself to get here.
I melt into his warm, solid arms—not holding me in place, not bracing for impact. Juststaying.
He stays.
Outside, the world waits.
This time, I know he will, too.
Epilogue
