Chapter 10

I watchas Nora drops the dirt into her mother's grave. She's handled herself with such grace and dignity, I'm in awe.

It's been four days since she agreed to hold off on any big decisions, and I've stuck to her side like glue. I've never felt like this about anyone, not even Harley. What Nora and I have is peace and respect. It's comfort and love. Yep, there, I said it. Love. Cos I fucking love this woman with every fibre in my body, and I know without a doubt that I can't let her go.

She re-joins me, and I wrap my arm around her shoulders as Josh grabs her hand. I've also spent the last few days getting to know the kid, and honestly, I like him. He's smart and funny, and it makes me regret what I did even more. He's also amazing with Elsie.

We head back to the house where Nora's laid out a small spread for any of her mother's friends who want to celebrate her life. Only ten people come back, and I join Nora in the kitchen to help wherever I can.

"Mum hated the two Sharons," she confesses with a smirk. "I bet she's fuming I've invited them back here."

I laugh. "They were good enough to show up."

"It makes me realise that life is too short for hate. Mum said she hated those two, but they've turned up here to celebrate her life. Maybe they've always liked her and she didn't even realise. I don't want to spend my life hating."

"Me either," I agree.

"And maybe," she continues as she places sandwiches onto a silver tray, "I should follow my heart when it comes to love." I glance up, waiting until she meets my eyes and smiles. "You've been so amazing these few days. I couldn't have gotten through it without you."

"What are you saying?" I ask because I daren't assume she's giving us the green light.

"Maybe I shouldn't move back to Manchester just yet." I stare at her, and she shrugs. "Or ever."

"Don't say it if you don't mean it," I warn, grabbing her wrist and pulling her to me.

She laughs. "I'd miss your grumpy moods," she tells me.

"Are you saying what I think you are?"

She runs a hand down my cheek, nodding. "I want us to make this work."

"Thank fuck," I mutter, kissing her hard until she giggles. "I've been sick with nerves thinking you were gonna tell me today that you'd be leaving me."

"Even if I wanted to, I can't. Your VP threatened me."

I grin, kissing her a second time. "He's always got my back, and now, he'll have yours."

"Don't let me down," she whispers. "No more bad boy antics."

I hold her to me, burying my nose in her hair and inhaling her sweet smell. "I won't risk losing you, Nora. I love you."

I feel her sag in relief as her arms wrap around my neck. "I love you too," she admits.

Josh comes in carrying Elsie. "Gross," they say in unison, and we both laugh.

It's the beginning of our journey, but one I'm excited about. For the first time in years, I'm happy, and although I can't change my bad boy lifestyle overnight, I'll do whatever it takes to protect my little family. They are my world.

THE END