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“I’m glad.”

Rook’s voice was softand low, and Zoey wanted to wrap up in its warmth. The distance she’d placedbetween them dissolved. Seeing Rook standing here, close enough to touch, madethe wall she’d erected between them seem like a stepping stone. She stood andwalked toward her. “I’m glad you’re here.”

Rook smiled. “There’sa lot of glad between us.” She shifted in place. “Julia gave me a copy ofRory’s file this morning. She tells me I have you to thank.”

“I knew it wasimportant to you.”

“It is, but I’mlearning that I don’t always know what’s most important to me until I’ve let itslip away.”

Zoey reached forRook’s hand and laced their fingers. “I walked away, not you.”

“You didn’t walk veryfar.”

“I know.” Zoey willedRook to hear the subtle acknowledgement of hope in her voice.

“But I let you andmaybe that’s what you wanted,” Rook said. “Maybe it’s what you still want, butI had to come here and tell you that I love you. I love you and I want to seeif we can make a life together. And if it means I need to change what I do fora living, then—”

Zoey leaned in andkissed Rook, brushing her lips softly at first, but then claiming her with hardstrokes of her tongue to send a sure signal she no longer second-guessed thedepth of her feelings. When they broke for air, the words came rushing out. “Ilove you too.” Zoey jabbed a finger at Rook’s heart. “You. And whatever youdecide to do with your life won’t change that as long as I can be by yourside.” She pulled Rook’s hand and pointed to the door. “Now, let’s go make alife together.”

THE END