33. Alex

Chapter 33

Alex

New Year's Day

I'm climbing a winding stone staircase. Below, fog hovers on the Golden Gate Bridge, the majestic red towers piercing the mist. A rough breeze leaves a salty tang on my tongue.

Finally, I arrive at the top to find a charming yellow Victorian townhouse adorned with gingerbread trim and wisteria spilling from window boxes.

Warmth envelopes me. I'm home.

Grace stands on the porch, long hair drifting in the wind, hazel eyes tracking my approach with a soft smile on her face. A child is on her hip. Dark, curly hair tied with ribbons into pigtails. I break into a run as the girl's face breaks into a grin.

My legs pump. I need to reach them, yet the house recedes as I draw closer.

I'm thrust into my office at Hamilton her decision had been made. I'd offered her everything I had, and it wasn't enough.

And by asking, I'd ruined the best thing in my life.

I stood and held out my hand. She slid hers into it so I could pull her up.

I wrapped my arms around her waist one final time.

She exhaled a desolate sign into my chest.

I pressed my lips to hers one last time.

She kissed me back tenderly, tasting the salt of our joint mourning.

I interlaced our fingers one last time.

She walked me down the stairs, where my coat and suitcase were waiting.

"It's New Year's Day," she whispered. "The perfect time for a new beginning."