PART 16: THE LIGHT ON THE WATER
PART 16: THE LIGHT ON THE WATER
The sun was setting over Lake Michigan, painting the sky in deep shades of gold and amber.
Alejandro walked out onto the balcony, holding two glasses of sparkling cider.
He handed one to me, his arm sliding securely around my waist, pulling me close against his chest.
Below us, the city lights were beginning to twinkle in the dusk, but they no longer felt cold or threatening.
"Victor just texted," Alejandro said, taking a slow sip. "The parole board denied Paola's early release. Her injunction has been extended to a full decade."
I leaned my head against his shoulder, letting out a deep, clear breath—the first completely unburdened breath I had taken in years.
"It doesn't matter anymore, Alejandro," I whispered, watching the water ripple in the sunset. "Whether she's inside or outside, she no longer exists in our world."
He smiled, his eyes reflecting the bright golden light of the horizon.
May you like
"You're right," he murmured, turning me to face him, his hands framing my cheeks with absolute warmth. "Our world is right here."
He leaned down, pressing a long, tender kiss against my lips, a promise written in the summer wind.
