“There isn’t space for both of us,” I argue, although I know it’s useless.
“When has that ever stopped you?” She shoots me a stern look, her lips pouting. “You know, you shouldn’t fight with a sick person. It’s basic m-manners.”
I snort softly but toe off my shoes. “Fine.”
As carefully as I can, I slide into bed next to her. The metal frame groans at the additional weight, and I hold my breath, but it doesn’t give out, so I settle in, brushing a strand of hair out of her face.
Her eyelids are heavy, and her breathing has slowed.
“How are you going to explain this to the nurses if the bed breaks?”
The corner of her mouth twitches upward. “That’ll be one interesting story.” She fights to keep her eyes open. “Say it a-again.”
“Which part? To go to sleep?”
“You know wh-which part.”
I hum softly as I press my lips against the top of her head. “I love you, Jessica Richards.”
“I love you too.”
“Go to sleep, Trouble.”
“Don’t leave,” she whispers, her face nuzzled in my chest. “Promise me.”
“I promise.” I take her good hand in mine and press my lips against the back of it. “I’ll be here when you wake up. Right where you left me.”
EPILOGUE
JESSICA
“Dang it!” I hiss, hopping on one foot as sharp pain jolts up my leg.
The door to the terrace bursts open, a shadow falling over me. “What? What’s wrong? Is it your side? Your wrist?”
“It’s my foot!” I shake my leg. “Shit.”
Matthew’s brows furrow in confusion. “Your leg?”
“Yes, Matthew. My leg. This damn coffee table got in my way.”
The corner of his lips twitches upward as his shoulders relax. He opens his mouth, but I lift my finger to shush him. “Don’t you dare say anything.”
He blinks innocently. “Not even I love you?”
I purse my lips. “I guess that’s fine.”
Matthew chuckles, pressing his lips against mine in a short kiss. “Keep your eyes open, you know, in case any other coffee table comes running at you.”
“Matthew!” I yell, slapping his shoulder. Just barely because the man is fast.
“Infuriating man,” I mumble, plopping my ass down into one of the chairs, my gaze still locked on the door he disappeared through.
“Is he always like this?” Mae asks, chuckling softly, reminding me we’re not alone.
“This obnoxious?” I mutter, shifting my attention to my best friend, who’s watching me intently. “I’m afraid that’s part of his charm.”
“I was referring to the fact that he’s jumping at any little noise you make.”
