Chapter 32

CHAPTER 32

L uca

The sunrise is beautiful. Jackson is all out of words, and I don't have anything to say right now.

He's thanking me! He, who has helped me forget the mess of my career in London, who has given me my muse back. He, who fills my thoughts and chases the shadows away. I should be thanking him. I know he deserves to know the whole truth of me, but again, I shy away from it. I know I'm not worthy of him. I just don't want him to know it too. I don't think I can bear that.

When the sun has risen, we walk back to the house holding hands. Still silent, feeling there's no need for words right now.

As we reach the back door, he lifts our hands and plays a kiss across my knuckles. I give his hand a squeeze. He seems reluctant to let me go, but we can't fit through the door together.

Anna is in the kitchen, making pancakes for breakfast.

"Well, hello boys." She beams at us. "Come and tuck in."

After breakfast, we go through the plans again until Anna is satisfied.

"I want weekly updates," she says. "And I'll be back for opening day."

Then she's packed, her bags in the car, and she's ready to go.

We stand in the hall. It feels awkward for a minute, but Jackson is good at cutting through that.

He gives her a big hug.

"They are mighty good hugs, handsome."

He smiles at her.

"I'm pleased you came, Anna. I'm glad I've met you, thank you." He gives her a final hug before heading out to the garden, leaving us alone.

She turns to hug me.

"When I came here, I didn't know what I would find. I didn't know if I'd have to move in, or cart you back to London. I'm really happy that you found Jackson."

"He was trespassing, you know," I say.

"Seems meant to be then." She's always been one to easily accept life's synchronicities.

"As long as I don't mess it up," I can't help but add.

"Be yourself Lu, that's all you can be—and all Jackson wants."

"Thanks Anna. Enjoy the States and I'll see you in a couple of months." I give her another big hug and let her go, both excited and nervous about being alone with Jackson.