With my back pressed against the hard wall and legs stretched out in front of me, the view of the early dawn sky brightened as the sun started to peek over the mountains in the distance through the window. I wasn’t sure how long I’d spent watching her while she lay curled on her side in the fetal position, with her head resting on my thigh like it was the most comfortable pillow.
While it wasn’t ideal, I didn’t dare move a muscle, other than when I unbuttoned my dress shirt and draped it over her bare shoulders. I didn’t want to disturb her. She cried until she had nothing left in the tank. Gut-wrenching sobs turned into hiccups and sharp whimpers until they began to slow, and her breathing eventually evened out. Knowing she trusted me enough to fall asleep on me said everything I needed to know, but that didn’t negate how sick I felt when I thought back to our misunderstanding.
I’d never been one to judge anyone on their actions. I’d seen and heard enough on the job to know that people do what they have to do to survive some situations.
“Jaxon,” Lily called out my name in a rush and scrambled to sit up.
“I’m here,” I said quickly, leaning forward, reaching for her.
She sighed. “Please tell me last night didn’t happen?”
“I wish I could, but pretending it didn’t won’t help.”
“I know.” She eased herself up off the floor.
My body felt stiff as I followed suit.
“I need to use the restroom,” she whispered.
I sat on the bed and reached for my phone on the nightstand, feeling like I’d mentally gone ten rounds in a boxing ring. I was exhausted and barely holding it together. When the screen came to life, there were messages from everyone checking in on Lily.
Arizona: How’s my girl?
Boden: We’re here for you both.
Jameson: Whatever is going on, I can feel it, bro. It’s heavy as fuck! Say the word, and I’ll help bury the body. Give your girl a hug from me.
Jenna: Thinking of Lily. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Ford: Jameson filled me in. You okay? Lily?
Arizona: I’m trying to be patient, but I know your phone is still on because the message says delivered. I’m really worried. Is Lily okay?
Lakelyn: Checking in, how’s Lily? Please let me know how I can help.
Cameron: The suite is yours for another two days, should you want it. Everything is already paid for; you take care of your girl. Let me know if I can be of further help.
Arizona: JAXON!!! DON’T MAKE ME COME UP THERE!!!
I snickered and, admittedly, was shocked she hadn’t already burst her way through the suite like a tornado.
Jaxon: Lily’s exhausted, but she’s resilient. She’s going to be okay! We had a long talk, and everything is out in the open between us. I can’t share details, as it’s not my place, then again, maybe you already know? Could you thank everyone for their help and support last night?
I’d just pushed send to Arizona when Lily emerged from the bathroom.
How was it possible she was even more beautiful? She quietly padded across the room toward the bed.
“Come here.” I patted my thigh, relieved when she didn’t shy away. “I love you so much, Lily,” I said, wrapping my arm around her back while my other hand cradled her cheek softly. “That will never change?—”
“But?”
“There’s no but. Not now. Not ever. My love for you isn’t conditional.”
“I love you too.” Her smile was heartfelt and radiant, just like her.
I pressed my lips to hers, needing her like the air in my lungs. Our connection was a lifeline, gentle and sincere. A reassuring promise, a declaration of our love and respect, and our trust and faith in the other.
“I’m so sorry, Jaxon.”