Page 94 of Mine to Worship

“I am sorry you had to go through that. I can’t even imagine…” I break down in sobs because of the images I have in my mind.

“Shh, angel. It’s okay.”

He wraps his arms around me, making me feel safe.

I am safe, I am loved, I am fine.

That alone counts as a blessing because not everyone has that. I sniffle into his chest, my hands balling into fists.

“No, it’s not… I am so angry, I would… how could they do that to you, or any child?”

I lock my arms around his neck, soothing each other.

It’s more than an act of personal revenge, it’s justice.

Kian’s jaw ticks. “And when Richard gets what he deserves, I can finally rest, knowing my baby will come into a world that’s a bit safer.”

“But how can she not when she has you as her father? You’re incredible, and I love you so very much. I am proud of you.”

He lifts me in his arms and places me on the windowsill. He settles between my legs, and he twirls a lock of my hair. I open my arms to guide him back to me.

“You saved me then, through a painting, and you saved me from a life of not knowing what it is to love, have a family… You two are the best things that happened to me, and there is nothing I wouldn’t do to protect you.”

“You don’t have to fight alone anymore.”

I caress his cheek and he leans into my touch.

I kiss every inch of his face. If I have to show him for the rest of my life how lovable he is, I will.

“I never expected you in my life, never expected to fall in love so hard I can’t think straight. I have loved and protected Brandon since he was born, but having you blinded me. I’m sorry I thought you were capable of betraying me, but I didn’t know any different,” he says, every word ringing with desperation, with remorse, with guilt.

“I understand now,” I whisper.

My heart leaps with relief at the healing we both have embarked on.

“My heart knew that, and I regret misleading you. That’s the only thing I regret in my life. I could have lost you because I never believed in goodness. You are my light, my home, what I feel for you goes beyond love. I live to worship you, Ellia.”

Every word caresses my heart, placing soft kisses and the fading bruises vanish completely.

He lifts my hand to his lips, placing a featherlight kiss. He brings it to his heart.

“I am all yours, but there is this last thing I owe to myself, and to those who have no voice…”

“I am so proud of you. You are my husband, my partner, and the father of my baby. I couldn’t be any happier that we met.”

His lips find mine, and my heart beats in only one pattern, his name a steady beat echoing in my blood cells. Our baby kicks between us, interrupting our kiss and we smile at each other. The baby will be a fundamental change for us, yet, when we’re together, there is no fear of the future. I feel his love, our passion, and everything stills in my brain.

The picture I drew rests in the drawer, and I pick it up. My fingers trace the lines of my small baby bump. We came a long way, and I couldn’t be happier that we found each other again.

“What’s that?” Kian asks. His love shines so brightly, like the moon reflected on a lake, a bright spot lighting up the night.

I try to shove it back but stop midway. I crane my neck and I show him. He approaches and takes the drawing from my hands, the paper trembling between his fingers.

“I wanted to surprise you, it’s not ready. I can’t use acrylics…”

His eyes find mine, wonder and love bouncing in them.

“Do you like it?”

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