Page 108 of Endgame

Sweet girl.

“I’m not mad. But you’re right. We do need to talk soon.”

I lean over the seat to give her a light kiss. Her whole being falls into this kiss, and I know then, without a shadow of a doubt, she loves me. I stabilize her uncertainty in the same way she does mine. If that’s not love, then I don’t want any part of it.

Give me her, and I’ll survive just fine.

With that, I open my car door and stalk to her side to help her out. We will be okay…for now. Or at least until we get this figured out.

Thisisus.

“Mother,looking as ravishing as ever. Pops, you look exactly the same as I last saw you.” A noogie to my head from Dad confirms I’m home, while my Mom’s delight in my compliment secures me a long hug.

“Oh, Cal. I’ve missed you.” God, it feels good to be here.

I don’t get to visit as often as I’d like while traveling, but when I am home, the welcome is substantial.

The sound of the most ladylike greeting comes from beside me, causing my parents to direct their attention to her perfect frame.

“Hi, Mr. and Mrs. Hayes. Thank you for inviting me.” It’s almost as if my parents are seeing her in a new light, good or bad. I’ve yet to figure that out. My mother looks close to tears.

Hold it together, Delilah.

I can see the contemplation running through Dakota's thoughts. Will she walk up and hug them like I’m sure she’s done before, or will she wait for a more formal greeting?

I need to break this ice before the night goes to shit. Ever the optimist, Cal.

My interference doesn’t seem to be needed because Dakota has already leaped into my mother’s arms, hugging her neck tightly. My dad surprises me the most as he sidles up next to my mom and runs a reassuring hand over Dakota’s back. Seeing them like this brings a new level of comfort and protectiveness to my thoughts. Their love for me has always been unwavering, and I can see now it goes without saying that they love Dakota something fierce.

It fucks me up inside to knowtheysee whatIsee in her.

How did I get so lucky?

“Dakota, honey, you are always welcome in our home—as Navy’s friendandCallaway’s girlfriend. We love each the same.”

I’m silently reminding myself to pay off their mortgage or something of adequate sustenance because they are clearly saints, and I owe them everything.

For loving me despite my genetics.

For supporting me.

And for loving my girl.

My eyes find Dakota, her eyes filled with so much love my heart physically hurts. I know she’s most likely thinking about the loss of her parents. I realize my parents could never fill the void of her parents’ absence, but I know they will be what she needs to honor them.

My body moves on its own next to where they’re standing, and I find myself pulling Dakota into my side, running my other hand through her silky strands while doing my best to catch her attention.

“It’s okay to miss them.”

I whisper into her ear quietly, trying to keep the moment private even with my parents witnessing our interaction.

Her teary eyes find mine with a warm smile, “It feels good to be hugged by them. I can’t remember the last time I was hugged by someone who truly cared about me.”

Fuck me over and break my heart to pieces.

My beautiful and strong, not-so-broken girl.

If only she knew how muchIhad grown to love and care for her.

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