Page 58 of Only Forever

Jason told me repeatedly how proud he was of the progress I was making, but that we were in no rush and I should take my time conquering my fear of going out in public. I knew he meant it, but the thought of moving to Colorado to start a new life with Jason gave me more motivation to overcome my phobia. Jason had planned a romantic proposal to me a month ago, and I had cried tears of overwhelming joy as I answeredyes.That night, I had dreamed of my mother, and she had seemed at peace. I knew she was watching over me and was proud and happy for me. I didn’t need this physical house to feel connected to her anymore. I knew she would be in my heart wherever I went.

Chloe had been overjoyed when she learned about the engagement, and was already itching to help plan the wedding,even though we hadn’t even set a date yet. I had been afraid that learning about our engagement would be hard for her since she was in the midst of a divorce, but she embraced it and had already accepted being the maid of honor. Jason’s family had been ecstatic to hear about our engagement as well. I had become close with his mother again, and she had been up to visit from where they now lived in Virginia several times. I had found out that she had attended my mother’s funeral without me realizing. She had stayed in the back, because she hadn’t been sure if I wanted to see her since I had avoided all her calls. Jason’s family were still planning on selling their old home in Hyattsville, and was going to have Chloe be their agent when she moved back.

“I can’t wait to move to Colorado,” I said, feeling excitement rise. “Just give me four months, and I think I’ll be able to make the move.”

Jason raised my hand to his mouth, kissing my palm. “Take as long as you need. I’m not going anywhere without you.” He grinned and turned my hand over, looking at the big sparking engagement ring that now resided on my finger. “Especially now that you belong to me.”

I smiled at him, an ache in my chest. “I’ve always belonged to you,” I said softly. “I’ll never let anything get between us again.”

“Promise?” Jason said, his voice gruff with emotion.

“Promise,” I said, meaning it. Jason was my forever, and nothing could ever change that.

I leaned over to seal the promise with a soft kiss, and Jason cradled my face in his hands, returning the kiss with all the love in the world. This was where I belonged, forever.

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