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“I didn’t know if I could do it... going back. Saying goodbye.”

I swallowed the lump forming in my throat.

“But I did. I closed that chapter in my life. They will forever be in my heart, but I’m okay.”

Cyclone's hand found mine again, firmer this time, his thumb stroking slowly over my knuckles.

“You didn’t just do it, Jude,” he said, voice low and sure.

“You survived it. You faced it head-on. You’re stronger than you think.”

I blinked fast, looking up at him.

The firelight made his eyes look darker, softer, full of something I wasn’t sure I deserved.

“I don't feel strong,” I whispered.

“I feel like I’m barely holding it together.”

His fingers tightened around mine.

“You don’t have to hold it together with me.”

He leaned closer, his forehead almost touching mine.

“You don’t have to be anything but exactly who you are.”

Something inside me cracked open, raw and aching.

For so long, I’d worn armor over my heart and soul.

But with Cyclone... it just didn’t have to.

“Cyclone,” I breathed, the weight of his name too much and not enough.

I didn’t have the words for what I needed.

But somehow, he knew.

He cupped my face with both hands, tilting my chin until I looked right at him. Let’s make love. I’ve missed you so much,” he said hoarsely.

“Tell me, if you want me to stop.”

I shook my head, a tear slipping free.

“I don't want you to stop.”

And just like that, he kissed me.

Slow.

Deep.

Full of everything he hadn’t said and everything I hadn’t dared to hope for.

I melted into him, gripping the front of his T-shirt like it was the only thing keeping me grounded.

The kiss deepened, his hands sliding into my hair, his touch reverent and desperate all at once. He picked me up and pulled me onto his lap, my legs went around him as I pushed myselfclose so I could feel his heat. His cock was hard I reached down and my hand felt it through his pants.