Page 57 of Memphis

“You’re the incredible one.” She eased off me and settled in the crook of my arm, “I wasn’t sure if you could...you know.”

“I wasn’t so sure myself,” I chuckled as I removed my condom and tossed it in the trash.

“Clearly, we had nothing to worry about.” She let out a breath as she nestled closer. “Why does this feel so right?”

“Because it is.”

“What are we going to do?”

“I can tell you what we’re not going to do.” I looked over to her as I said, “We’re not going to keep putting everyone else’s wants and needs above our own.”

“Does that include my dad and your mom?”

“Absolutely. They’ll either get over it or they won’t.” I eased up on my elbow and took her hand in mine. “If I learned anything from my accident, it’s that life is too short. We’ve got something here. We’ve had it all along, and I’m willing to fight for it. The question is...are you?”

Antonia

“Morning.”

“Good morning.” I opened the door, and Preacher smiled when he saw that I was wearing one of Weston’s t-shirts and a pair of his socks. “Looks like you’ve made yourself right at home.”

“I was just making some breakfast. Come on in, and I’ll pour you a cup of coffee.”

“Don’t mind if I do.”

I tugged at the hem of the t-shirt, praying it was covering my backside as I made my way back over to the stove. “Are you hungry? I could fix you a plate.”

“No need in that.” He chuckled. “I wouldn’t want to put you out.”

“Don’t be silly. There’s plenty.”

“You should listen to her. She makes some mean bacon biscuits.”

“Is that right?” Preacher turned, and his eyes widened when he saw Weston standing in the doorway with only his cane for support. “What the hell? When did that happen?”

“I told you I was doing better.”

“But you didn’t say you were doing this much better.” Preacher looked like he was about to burst with pride. “You’re not even using your walker.”

“He’s been pushing himself really hard.” I stepped over and grabbed a jacket, quickly covering myself. “I’m just worried it’s too hard.”

“You didn’t think it was too hard last night.”

“Weston,” I gasped. “Your father is right there.”

“Yeah, I see him,” Wes smirked. “Jess has me down for some more tests this morning, but things are looking good.”

“That’s great to hear.” Preacher couldn’t take his eyes off him as Wes made his way over to the table and carefully sat down. “What time do you have to be there for the tests?”

“In about an hour.”

“You need me to run you over?”

“Nah. Skid’s coming.”

I filled both plates with eggs, bacon, and fresh-out-of-the-oven biscuits, then carried them over to the table. As I sat it down in front of them, I told them, “I’ll be right back. I’m going to change.”

They both gave a quick nod, then dove into their breakfast. I darted into the bedroom and threw on a pair of sweats. I pulled my hair up into a quick bun before returning to the kitchen. I went over to the stove and had just started making myself a plate when the front door opened, and someone called out, “Memphis!”

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