Page 44 of Soaring and Steadfast

"Good night, Lila," Trophy said simply as he left the room.

Lila forced a smile, lifting a hand in farewell.

Stephanie watched her husband disappear before turning back to Lila, her voice softer now. "When you find someone who brings your heart joy just byexisting… hang onto them. No matter how scared you are."

Lila inhaled sharply, blinking back the burn of tears.

"Here," she said, gently passing Angel back to Stephanie. "I think we should all get some sleep. It’s late."

Stephanie took the baby, but her eyes held Lila’s. "Think about what I said," she urged. "Take a chance if he makes you happy. But if you’re not ready, if you have doubts,tell him. Just don’t let fear make the choice for you."

Lila sat in the quiet of the dimly lit room. She watched as the hallway light was turned off, and Stephanie disappeared behind closed doors with her husband. Lila could hear their voices in the distance and knew they were talking, but couldn’t make out what they were saying.

Her phone screen lit up on the coffee table, giving her a jolt of happiness that was so recognizable as she saw ‘Pastor’s’ text. A faint smile touched her lips because she hadn’t changed it yet in her phone directory – and did so now. She changed it to Louis with a heart beside his name.

Sweet dreams, my friend. I can’t wait to see you tomorrow.

Her heart was waging a war inside – except she wasn’t so sure that losing wasn’t actually winning in the long run. She enjoyed his messages, his little notes to boost her up, the way he supported her. The last two days had been full of highs and lows – and the lows didn’t seem so bad because he was there. That was worthsomething, wasn’t it?

I’m so glad we met…

And saw him replying almost immediately.

I am, too. I miss your smile.

Dang it…she thought wretchedly, feeling tears sting her eyes. Why did he have to be so amazingly perfect?

I miss your smile too – and I don’t wanna wait for dinner. How about breakfast again?

You’re on, sweetheart.

Say the word, and I’ll be there anytime you need me.

♥?

He followed that text with a heart.

Oh my gosh.

Could he be any more wonderful?

Closing her eyes, she thought about Stephanie’s words and swallowed the lump in her throat, thinking about Louis onceagain and wondering silently why she was even considering going back to Louisville ever again.

Early the next morning, Lila checked her phone… and laughed softly against her pillow, smiling in disbelief. Louis sure was playful and waking up to a text like that had to be the funniest thing she’d seen in a while.

♥? ?? ?? ♥?

Good morning…

Ahhh, I knew you would reach out when you are ready.

I just woke up. Cool your jets.

Consider them cooled just for you, my fair lady.

She laughed again softly and cringed as she heard whispers nearby.

“Oh my gosh, babe… they are giggly?”

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