Page 135 of The Marine

But, my point is, everyone does this differently and I truly feel like I have some clarity. I feel new. In a way, that’s indescribable. Like a new start is possible if I just make some new choices.

Life is a journey anyway, and I’m sure I have days, months, years ahead of me as I become who I am. Minute by minute.

See?

Totally enlightened already.

I grab a salad and bottle of water in the hotel store, and in my flip-flops, bikini, and denim shorts, I head across the road to the beach feeling so much lighter than I did yesterday.

I walk along the sand, choosing a different spot and find that instead of bursting into tears watching happy couples, I’m observing.

Like writing my wish list.

I find a spot in the shade, drop to the sand, and pull my lunch out of my beach bag. The plastic fork is useless, but I don’t care.

In fact, I just feel carefree.

Or maybe I’m numb.

Either way, it does the job of getting the food into my mouth, mostly, and then I slide my trash into a bag to discard on my way back to the hotel.

I need to decide what to do.

I can’t afford to stay atCasa de Venicetoo many more nights, and the reality of what I did, just disappearing off the grid, is pushing up against my responsible nature.

I’ve always been a good communicator, keeping in contact with people. I don’t ghost my friends or family—even when my mom is driving me crazy— and I know they will be worried.

The twenty-five unread messages on my messenger are a strong indication. Still, I had to take this time for myself. I’m not sorry and I will not be apologizing for being unplugged for a few days.

A good-looking man scoops his wife or girlfriend up into his arms and runs into the water as she squeals. A pang in my chest reminds me I’m far from healed and whole.

Aidan.

It’s not Kael I’m thinking of or missing...it’s Aidan. I dreamed about him last night. He was lying beside me, watching me sleep, telling me he will always protect me.

Always love me.

I was pregnant. I never wanted to wake up. I wanted to stay in that dream forever.

The man and woman splash around giggling and then share a kiss. Tears prickle in my eyes even though I’m happy for them.

“I remember kissing you in the water like that a decade ago.” A huge body flops down on the sand, startling me.

“Oh!” I cry, my hand slamming against my chest.

Aidan drops his hands on his bent knees and just stares out at the water.

Jesus.

How did he find me?

“I’ll always find you, Briar.” He answers my silent question.

My mouth is still gaping as I stare at him, my heart pounding. He’s the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen.

Wearing a pair of khaki beach shorts and a white T-shirt, Aidan looks completely at home on the sand.

His tattoos peek out of the top of his shirt and along his arm. Onlookers would question if he’s a famous model or a badass.

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