Page 167 of Consume Me

“Be quiet, she’s asleep. Can’t you see that?”

I know that is rude as fuck, but I don’t care. Mia needs her sleep.

“I will call the doctor.”

“That can wait. Can you bring me a Sharpie, please?”

She puts her hands on her hips, arching a brow at me. “You flatlined twice. Once before they brought you in and during surgery.”

“I’m here, aren’t I?”

“Did you hear what I told you, young man?”

“I did. Thank you for your concern, but I am fine. Please, bring me a Sharpie. It’s important.”

“All right, but then I’ll inform the doctor.”

I offer a nod and switch my focus to contemplate Mia. Her full lips are jutted out in an adorable pout, her hair falls to the side of her face. I gently brush it away, having an unobstructed view of her beautiful face. Her soft cheekbones and button nose––all delicate and feminine and most importantly, all mine.

From the corner of my eye, I notice the nurse enter the room, but I can’t take my eyes off Mia.

“She hasn’t left your side. I hope you understand how lucky you are to have someone like her.”

“I’m well aware.”

“But the way you look at her, I don’t think I have to worry,” she says, something light in her tone.

She approaches my bed and offers me the Sharpie.

“You have a few minutes before the doctor will be with you. And after the visit, I’ll inform your family and friends. They’re all in the waiting area. I understand why you fought so hard.”

With that, she leaves, and I bring the Sharpie to my mouth, uncapping it.

Slowly, I write along Mia’s arm, enjoying marking her in any way I can.

I love you.

Stroking her fingers gently, her eyes flutter open. The long sigh ringing of anguish vibrates through me. When she pulls her head up, her gaze lands on her arm, and I love how expressive she is. Her eyes widen, her mouth parts, and when she lifts her quivering chin, our gazes lock. A few tears slide down her cheeks. Seeing that powerful reaction, emotions punch me straight in my chest, and my vision blurs.

“Tell me I’m not dreaming.”

“You’re not, Silver.”

She lets out a deep sigh of relief and drops on top of me. I feel nothing but pure bliss when she forces herself off and watches me.

“What if I hurt you? Oh my god… I have to call the doctor.”

“He’ll be here shortly, and you could never hurt me.”

A small smile graces her lips, and she caresses the words on her arm.

“Do you know who wrote this sweet declaration?”

“If anyone who’s not me wrote that, he’s in big trouble, the kind he won’t be able to get out of.”

She giggles and shakes her head at me playfully.

“The only other man allowed to tell you he loves you, besides me, your father, and brother, and who has my blessing to do so, will be our son.”

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