Page 154 of The Jaded Notes

Her cheeks turn bright red, but the sparkle in her gaze beams my way. It’s brighter than any light on stage. I fly high and continue singing my soul to her.

Through any storms or any thorns that arise, trust me, you’re perfect in my eyes.

My wish is that you always smile, but if ever a tear or a fear, I’ll hold you until they disappear.

Her shoulders relax, and she rocks through the rest of the song.

You’re always mine, no matter what.

Through the highs and the lows, I won’t give up.

In this world, where time can fly, together we’ll soar, you and I.

You’re always mine, forever true.

With every heartbeat, I’ll always choose you.

The song builds around us, but we’re in our own world. Just her and me, and five years of unfinished business.

When the black night creeps along, you, my love, inspire my songs.

In the silence of the dawn, your arms are where I belong.

In dreams I keep, our beautiful future those don’t believe in transpires.

So when the sun peeks out, Lily, choose relief and forget those terrible liars.

Through the scary whispers of the night, you’re my star, my guiding light.

You, the comfort in the black. Me, your strength, I have your back.

With every step, hand in hand, together let’s forever make castles in the sand.

You’re always mine, no matter what.

Through the highs and the lows, I won’t give up.

In this world, where time can fly, together we’ll soar, you and I.

You’re always mine, forever true.

With every heartbeat, I’ll always choose you.

Lily, for you, this is our love song.

With every heartbeat, in every breath,

Never doubt I’ll love you ’til death.

When the final chord rings out, she’s crying. Mascara streaked, lips parted, and staring at me like she used to.

Then she smiles. It’s soft and broken, but genuine.

I lean close to the mic one last time and cut through the noise. “Lily, will you have dinner with me tomorrow night?”

She laughs through her tears, shaking her head at my audacity.

But then she nods as she dabs her eye with the back of her finger.