Rumors are circulating, however, that SolomiChem are planning on changing their name and opening up operations in another country. The news upset me, but Justin’s response was a philosophical shrug. The war continues, he muttered, and other activists will fight it.
I never returned to SolomiChem. I sent in my resignation the same day the chemo beagles were killed. I also refused to look at anyof the leaked documents, not wanting to read how they died. Some details I’m better off not knowing.
“Heather, it’s time.”
I look up to find Justin standing over me, his eyes soft with warmth and love.
“You okay?” he asks tenderly, his gaze roaming over every inch of my face.
“I’m always okay with you at my side.”
He pulls me to my feet, drawing me against him. I rest my cheek against his chest, hearing the steady, strong beat of his heart, marveling again that this man will soon be my husband.
“I am so addicted to you,” he whispers, tightening his arms around me, as though he wants to hold onto this moment. “You have destroyed me for anyone else.”
“I’m destroyed along with you then,” I murmur.
“You ready?” he asks.
I nod.
“Let’s go.”
We have an appointment at a local animal shelter to pick up a rescue beagle. We both agreed to name him Turbo.
I promised not to forget him and I intend to keep that promise.
EPILOGUE
AMY
––––––––
Six months later...
I stand outside Ross and Mel’s farmhouse, hands deep in the pockets of my jacket, working up the courage to go in. When I found out that the name of their sanctuary was Hope Animal Rescue, I laughed. And then I cried. Hope is exactly what I don’t have. I feel utterly bereft.
The front door opens, and Ross and Mel step outside. My throat tightens at the sight of them.
“Amy,” Mel greets me, blinking back tears. “It’s been a while.”
Six months. Six months of darkness and learning to breathe again.
“We missed you,” Ross says simply.
I swallow. “I missed you both too.”
A month after Kane disappeared, Mel texted me, wanting to know if I was okay. It was so good to hear from her. She had no idea where Kane was; he’d cut himself off from everyone, but over the next few months she kept me updated on the animals at the sanctuary, especially the antics of Carrot-top and Nugget.
This is my first visit back to the sanctuary. Mel invited me numerous times before, only I wasn’t strong enough to accept. I still don’t know if I’m strong enough to get through this lunch without breaking down, but I couldn’t refuse Mel’s pleading invitation this time.
“You want to come in?” Ross asks.
“Would you mind if I spend some time outside first?”
“Not at all,” Mel replies. “Do you want me to come with you?”
“I’d prefer to be alone.”
