“How so?”
“I already lost her once. If I knew who received any of her organs and something happened to them… It would be like I lost her all over again.”
I can understand why he’d feel that way. Transplants can add years you wouldn’t have had otherwise, but they’re not a permanent solution, especially for someone as young as me. I’ll eventually need another transplant, where the risk of rejection or death is much greater.
It’s why I left my job.
To live life while I still can.
“That’s why I overreacted today. When I couldn’t reach you…”
“You thought something happened,” I finish as I stop walking.
He nods, facing me. “My brain immediately rewound to that day.”
“I’m so sorry,” I whisper. “I should have made sure my text went through.”
“You made an honest mistake. I didn’t handle it well. And I’m sorry. I don’t deserve it, but I’d appreciate it if you’d give me another chance. If you’d giveusanother chance. If not for me, for Jemmy and Presley.”
I flash him a teasing smile. “Are you using them to convince me to come back?”
“Is it working?”
“Maybe.”
“I’ll even pay you more.” He laughs under his breath. “My mom says you deserve hazard pay for dealing with me.”
I grin, meeting his dark eyes. “Your mother’s a smart woman.”
“She’s the best. And is always right. But don’t tell her I said that.” He winks.
“Of course not.”
“What do you say?” He steps toward me. “Will you come back?”
I shift my gaze away from him, taking in the sights and sounds of Sycamore Falls. Of the place I never meant to stay for more than a piece of pie.
But maybe there’s a reason I’m still here.
Maybe all the times I’ve said yes were meant to lead me to this exact place.
To this exact moment.
To these people.
I return my eyes to his, the corners of my mouth curving as I respond, “Yes.”
Not because I have to.
But because Iwantto.
Relief visibly rolls off Hayden, his shoulders relaxing. Before I can make sense of it, he wraps his arms around me.
I instantly stiffen, the feel of his body against mine sending sparks of electricity through me.
I’ve never had this kind of visceral reaction to a hug before.
Is it because the heart beating inside me somehow recognizes him?
