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Check-in was smooth, although she was confused when I led her to the first-class check-in desk.

“But I’m not⁠—”

I cut her off with a shake of my head. “I went into your computer and changed the reservation. It’s a gift from my parents and me.”

She looked askance.

“It’s a long flight. You’ll be more comfortable.”

She didn’t argue, and we walked toward security, our footsteps slow, my feet feeling heavier with every step. Before we reached the line, I guided her over to a bench and we sat, our hands clasped, knees pressed together as we faced each other, the busy terminal fading away and only the two of us existing.

“I’m scared,” she admitted.

“You’ll be fine. There’s a car waiting for you in Toronto. They’ll take you to the house.”

Her eyes widened.

“My uncle insisted. He has a driver, and he isn’t needed at the office this afternoon. So if a large, effusive man is waiting, that’ll be Aiden. He’ll talk your ear off and make sure you’re okay.”

“Why are you doing all this?”

I leaned forward so our foreheads touched. “That’s what you do when you love someone,” I whispered, not wanting her to go without saying the words. I didn’t know if it made this easier or harder, but I had to say them.

She squeezed my hands, her voice low. “I love you too.”

“Then go with my love and know I’m here.”

She pulled back, her eyes bright. “How do I leave you now?”

I tucked a stray piece of hair behind her ear. “Because we have a plan. Because we love each other. Long-distance relationships suck, but they can work. Don’t think about the time apart. Think about what happens when it’s done. We’ll build a life. One that is ours.” I smiled grimly. “I have the easy part. I have my family and friends. Everything is familiar to me. You have to go to a strange city and meet all new people. I hate that you have to do this alone.” I smiled at her, cupping her cheek. “But your new roomies are going to love you. I know it. And you’re going to be a fabulous nurse.”

She smiled even as tears leaked down her cheeks.

“Try to have some fun. Make friends with your housemates. Other people in the program. Call my sister, and she’ll come to you. My uncles. My parents will check on you once they get there. Enjoy it. I don’t want you to be alone and miserable. Promise me you’ll try.”

“I will.”

“Good.” I glanced at the clock. We had waited until the last possible moment to get there. It was time for her to go through security and to her gate.

“We have to go.”

She nodded and gathered her purse and carry-on bag. At the entrance to security, I pulled her aside and wrapped her in my arms, breathing in her scent one last time. She clung to me, her hands tight on my back, and I felt the sob she was trying to hold in. I lifted her face, cupping her cheeks, and kissed her.

“Stop, please. It’s killing me.”

She wiped at her face and offered me a tremulous smile.

“Text me when you land and call me after you get to the house and get settled in. Don’t forget to eat. Drink lots of water on the plane. I put some protein bars in your carry-on.”

“Anything else, Dr. VanRyan?” she asked, teasing me.

“Remember I love you. You got this.”

She touched her lips to mine again. “Thank you.”

And she was gone.

Maddy