Page 143 of Branded Hearts

“I did,” he replies, his tone reassuring.

“And?”

“She’s the one who booked my flight to come here. Well, herandXavier.”

“What?”

“Yep. She’s okay.We’reokay. Said she wants to speak to you when we get back,” he replies, his gaze steady and reassuring.

I take a breath of relief, feeling tears start to prick at the corners of my eyes. “Oh, thank God. So, we’re really okay?” I ask again, needing that extra reassurance.

“We’re good, Mills,” he says, his voice firm and comforting.

“And you’re really not going anywhere? Don’t make promises you can’t keep,” I tease, my smile mischievous.

He raises his brow, his expression challenging me back.

“I promise.”

“So, does that mean you’ll be around for morning kisses?” I ask, looking up at him with a playful grin.

“Every single morning,” he promises, pressing a tender kiss to my lips.

“And goodnight kisses?”

“Yes, Amelia,” he murmurs, pressing a kiss to my cheek. “And midday kisses, too,” he adds, kissing my other cheek.

“Midday? But we both have work,” I point out, amused.

“You think that’ll stop me? I’ll leave the station every day at noon if it means I get to kiss you,” he vows, love shining in his eyes.

“Forever?” I ask, my eyes lighting up.

“Forever.”

Ten years ago, I locked eyes with a boy whose blue eyes were like the summer sky—so far out of my league, yet I didn’t care. His rare smile was infectious, and his laughter, though infrequent, was a melody I never wanted to stop hearing. All those years of wishing to be noticed, of longing for a man who felt like a breath away but seemed so unattainable, have led me to this moment. Now, here I am, loving that same man unconditionally. Every day with him feels like a gift, a beautiful blend of shared dreams and endless possibilities.

As I look into those familiar blue eyes now, I’m filled with a sense of peace and joy. I’m content knowing I’m going to spend the rest of my life with him, building our dreams together, and perhaps starting a family of our own one day. This is our forever, and I couldn’t be happier. My heart is full, and my future looks brighter than ever.

It’s not just a hope; it’s a certainty—Iwantto spend the rest of my life with him because my heart has always been his, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I now know that some things, or some people, are destined to be together forever after all.

Epilogue

You & Me - James TW

Spring is in full swing here, with flowers blooming everywhere, and I feel like my life is just perfect right now. Bradley and I are back in Wattle Creek, and I’m absolutely glowing with joy. I can’t wait to see what our first summer together as a couple will be like. It feels like the start of something truly special.

After the gallery night, we had an impromptu longer stay in Sydney. We ventured around the city, making memories and spending time with Kat, John, and Millie. We visited the Sydney Opera House, took long walks by the harbour, and even had a few picnics in the Royal Botanic Garden. Bradley and I explored hidden cafes, laughed over silly souvenirs, and shared countless moments that made my heart swell with happiness.

We made new memories that I’ll cherish forever.

The townsfolk were thrilled to have us back, welcoming us with open arms. I’d been hesitantto come back home after everything that happened, but the minute Brad and I landed back in Wattle Creek, our whole family was there waiting for us—Mum, Dad, Bradley’s parents, Olivia, Xav, Isla and Imogen. I’d promised Bradley that I wouldn’t cry, but the moment I saw my best friend, the waterworks just wouldn’t stop. Liv rushed over and had given us both a tight hug. The three of us shared our sorry’s and I love you’s.

It was such a heartfelt reunion, making me realise just how much I missed our tight-knit community. I fumble with my keys as I unlock the door to our apartment. Well, technically, it’s stillmyapartment, but Bradley moved in as soon as we got back from Sydney. He fit right into my little space, and it feels more like home with him here.

Just as I’m dropping my bag by the door, my phone buzzes. It’s a text from Bradley.

A blush creeps up my cheeks. This man will never stop making me blush. I love how he knows my schedule, knows exactly when I get home and when I leave for work. Every day since the gallery, he’s met me for lunch at school, still keeping his promise. My face heats at the thought. I glance in the mirror, smoothing my hair and touching up my lipstick.

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