"Yeah, it was. Anyway, I don't want to sit and have it out here. When I first got here I wanted to scream at you for running off with him again. But now that I see you here, with him, I just can't. Watching the two of you on the dance floor … " Shaking his head he continued. "I fucking hate admitting this, but you just look right together. And I knew there was no reason to fight you on it anymore."
"Please tell me you'll be okay." I loved this man. He was a wonderful person, he had been my rock for so long and he deserved so much better than me. My love for Stefan ran deep. There was apparently nothing that could change that, but that never meant I wanted to hurt Richard in the process.
"I'll be fine eventually. The asshole is right, it is really hard getting over you. I've experienced only a little bit of that feeling this week. But I'll feel much better knowing you're at least going to be safe and with someone who loves you."
"Please call if you need anything." Richard nodded, and before I let him walk away I threw my arms around him. I knew tonight I would be preparing for a goodbye, except it had been with a completely different guy. Richard pulled away and pressed one final kiss to my head.
"Be happy, Grey."
"You too, Richard."
He gave a parting wave to me and walked back through the way we came. I turned to face Stefan and finally, I saw him as mine. There were no more barriers. No more 'ifs' or 'maybes' or anything else. It was just me and him.
My legs walked across the gravel as quickly as I could to get to the man I had been searching for all along.
"You better not be coming over here to tell me goodbye anymore. I wasn't a big fan of that parting hug by the way. And-"
I cut him off completely as I closed the last inches of space and sealed my mouth over his. His arms squeezed me tight and lifted me from the ground while our lips stayed together. I peeled my mouth from his and smiled down into his face. Tears filled my eyes, but for the first time in so long, they were happy ones.
"I love you, Stefan Harrison. And I'm ready to come home."
His jaw tensed as wetness began accumulating at the brim of his eyes. "You have no idea how long I've been waiting for you to say that, Greyson Rose."
"Well good, because I married my soulmate when I was 18 years old, and I'm tired of living a life without him."
"Baby, you don't need to worry about a thing. I will never let you go again."
"Do you promise?"
"Always, baby. Always and forever."
Kristy Davidson-Oh my darling Aussie. What would I have done without you? When I asked if anyone was interested in beta reading, and you responded, I thought nothing more about it. I hoped you liked my work but it didn't take long for our friendship to grow from there. You have kept me inspired, motivated, and let's be honest here-you've kept me sane! You are one amazing woman and I am so unbelievably happy that you are now a part of my life. Oh, and hopefully I didn't drive you too crazy because you're stuck with me now, darling. I love youuu!! Xoxox … Love from your Tinysoda ;)
Kari March-My darling Kari! You never cease to amaze me! Each and every day I am thankful for our friendship! I'm so sorry for my countless requests but I just want you to know how much everything you do for me means. You're my rockstar, Kari!! Love you Lady!!! *MUAH*
Jude Ouvrard-I seriously don't have the words to express how grateful I am to have a friend like you. You are always there to help me, support me, and promote me. You are an incredible person, and I want you to know that I am always here for you. Thank you so much for all that you do! Love you!! Xoxo!
Tracy McKay-I love you! I really don't know how else to start this other than saying that! You are my first bookie friend and you will always be. I love that you never stop believing in me, and because of that, I have learned to believe in myself. I can't wait to someday see your pretty face and slightly maul you! LOVE YOU!
Jane Barron-I know life has been tough and your availability has changed. But every word of encouragement you've given me has meant the world. I will never be able to thank you enough for taking on this crazy challenge of a novel for me! I hope you love the final product! Xoxo!
Rachel Hicks & Jenni Carlene-You two have been dedicated and loyal followers of mine since my very first book. I may not always respond to every post, every mention, or every comment, but I see them all. That is why when I needed someone to step in and give me that final thumbs up-I chose you ladies. People like you are the reason I will never stop writing. Your love, and your support show through in every way imaginable. I love you both! Xoxo!
Jessica Westover-Oh my Boo! I've missed our talks but I still love you much! And I can't wait till I can squeeze you tight! Love you always!! *MUAH*