Because I’m all in.
My hands tighten their grip on his shirt, pulling him closer. “Xayden…”
He doesn’t say anything, his thumb brushing against my cheek as his other hand curls around my waist, holding me like I’m something fragile and precious.
“It doesn’t feel fake,” I whisper, my voice trembling. “Not when it’s like this.”
“It’s not,” he says, his breath ghosting over my lips. “Not for me.”
The vulnerability in his voice steals my breath, and I tilt my head up, pressing my lips to his again, this time with more certainty. He responds instantly, his arms tightening around me, his kiss gentle but filled with a depth that shakes something loose inside me.
When we pull apart, I look into his eyes and see nothing but sincerity staring back at me.
“I’m scared,” I admit, my voice barely audible.
His grip on me tightens slightly, his gaze steady. “So am I. But we’ve got this, Ash. I’ve got you.”
CHAPTER 39
West
I stand outside her door,my heart pounding in a way I’m not proud of. There’s no one around, no cameras lurking behind potted plants or half-open doors. The hallway is completely still—just me and a small box in my hand.
I hesitate, staring at the soft glow under her door. Part of me wants to turn around, but that’s the same part that’s kept me silent for too long. The part that’s let fear dictate every choice since she walked back into our lives.
Not tonight.
I lift my knuckles and knock twice, my pulse roaring in my ears. For a long moment, there’s no answer, and I think maybe she’s asleep. But then the door opens, and Ashlyn stands there, hair tousled, an oversized sweater slipping off one shoulder. If she’s wearing shorts they are hidden beneath the shirt. She blinks, surprise etched on her face.
“West?” she asks, her voice hushed, like she’s afraid she might scare me off if she speaks any louder.
I swallow hard, my grip tightening on the box in my hand. “Hey,” I manage, attempting to act natural. “Sorry, I—uh—it’s late.”
She tilts her head, studying me. “Is everything okay?”
I nod, offering her a small smile I’m not entirely sure reaches my eyes. “Yeah. Everything’s fine. Can I… come in for a second?”
I’m half sure she’s going to say no, and I’m ready to accept her refusal. But then she steps back without hesitation, gesturing me inside. The room is dimly lit by a single lamp on the bedside table. I catch the hint of strawberries in the air—her scent, warm and familiar. I exhale slowly, realizing how comforting it is to be close to her without all the noise and lights.
She closes the door behind me, folding her arms loosely. “What’s up?” There’s no wariness in her expression—just curiosity and that quiet kindness I’ve always admired.
I clear my throat, holding out the box. “I, uh, wanted to give you something.”
Her eyes flick down to the box, then back to me. “You didn’t have to?—”
“I know,” I say quickly, shaking my head. “I just… wanted to.”
She hesitates, then takes the box from my hand. I realize I’m holding my breath as she lifts the lid, revealing a small bracelet—silver, delicate, set with a tiny charm shaped like a music note. Her lips part slightly, a soft inhale escaping her.
“It’s nothing fancy,” I say, my voice quieter now. “I saw it in a little shop earlier today, and it just… reminded me of you. It’s just… for you.”
Ashlyn’s gaze flicks up, and I see the shimmer of emotion there. She sets the box on the table, lifting the bracelet carefully out of its wrapping.
“It’s beautiful,” she murmurs, a gentle smile curving her lips. “Thank you.”
Heat creeps up my neck, and I reach out, brushing my fingertips over her wrist. “Here, let me.”
She extends her arm, and I fasten the clasp, my fingers clumsy with nerves. When I’m done, the bracelet catches the light against her skin.
