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“I know and I’m ready. Had I known you didn’t want space, I swear I would’ve reached out sooner. You, Twinkle, have always hidden your emotions so well. I wish I had been more open to you. I think we need to sit together and have a deep and long conversation about everything.”

Brushing the tears away, I answer, “Okay. Then I would like to work on our relationship.”

“Oh, thank you, love,” she cries. “I’m going to book tickets and come see you tomorrow.”

“Wait, I’m not in India right now.”

“Where are you?” There’s a touch of embarrassment when she asks hesitantly, “Did you move somewhere?”

“No. I came to spend the holidays in Switzerland.”

“With friends?”

“No, I came alone,” I reply with happiness. Kingston’s handsome face flashes before my eyes. “So, I would like to see you once I’m back.”

“Of course, whenever you want,” she agrees enthusiastically. “Are you enjoying it? I know the holidays were always your favorite time of the year.”

Nostalgia hits me when I recall all the times I spent with her and Dad. “Zermatt is beautiful. I’m having fun.”

“Maybe you can tell me all about it when we meet.”

“Yeah.”

There’s a heavy pause before she softly says, “I’m glad you called, Twinkle. Hearing your voice after so long made me realize how much I missed you. I thought I had lost you for good, but to know you were hurting all this time... No matter what, I’ll never make you feel like you aren’t important to me again. I promise you.”

“Someone told me life is too short and I knew I had to try one more time.”

“I’m glad you did.”

“Me too,” I whisper. “Well, I have to go.”

“Okay. I’ll see you soon.”

I sit alone for long moments, processing it all after hanging up. I know I have to talk to Dad too, but I’ll do it after I go back.

Right now, I want to be with the man that completes me like no other.

Putting my phone away, I exit the bedroom and climb down the stairs. Kingston’s in the living room, watching a muted basketball game. As soon as he sees me, he jumps to his feet and concern etches across his face upon seeing my red-rimmed eyes.

Bridging the distance between us, I throw my arms around him and he catches me by the hips. The tears I was keeping at bay spill. Before he can mistake them for sadness, Iwhisper through the sobs, “It went well, King. She misses me too.”

The tension lacing his shoulders disappears. “Are these happy tears then?”

“Yes.” I laugh. “I know we have a long way to go, but I, at least, know she cares and loves me.”

Walking over to the couch, he sits down with me straddling his lap. His palm cups my cheek when I pull back, brushing the tears away. “Of course, she does. I can’t imagine anyone knowing you and not falling in love.”

My breath hitches when he says it.

Because I can sense the deeper meaning engraved there.

“You’re loyal, protective, generous, and so brave. I’m so happy for you, Twinkle. Your parents are lucky to have you.”

Leaning down, I snuggle into him with my head tucked underneath his chin, and whisper, “Thank you for staying, Kingston.”

His lips graze my temple in a soft kiss. “I wouldn’t be anywhere else.”

***