Page 65 of Hard Shift

Elizabeth rested her hand on the knob, knowing that this was the last intimate conversation she’d ever have with the man who was tied to her soul.

Quit stalling,he teased. I’m ready for the silence.

She grinned and turned the knob.

One more thing, Lizzie.There was a pause.We’ll always be connected even if I’m no longer your protector and can’t hear your thoughts. I think everyone is forgetting that I turned you into an immortal. We’ll always have that bond. I’ll always have your back, no matter what, princess. You can count on it. Now go be happy. You damn well deserve it.

You do, too. I hope you find love and peace, Evan. Wherever that may be.

I’ll be seeing you, Queenie.

Elizabeth chuckled.Asshole.

Always.

Elizabeth pulled the door open to find Rhys lying on the bed. Worry clouded his gaze. “Did he answer this time?”

She smiled and nodded.

“About damn time. I thought I was going to have to hunt him down and kick his ass.” He smiled up at her and held out his hand. Her life would never be the same after tonight.

She crawled up onto the bed and into his arms. Rhys leaned over her and pressed a tender kiss to her lips. “This isn’t the end, baby. It’s just the beginning.”

“I love you,” she whispered against his lips. “I’ll love you forever.”

Rhys cupped her cheek with his warm palm. “I was born to love you, Elizabeth. You’re my family, and bite or not, that will never change.” He held her gaze. “I’ll still protect and love you, always, even without the bond.”

Rhys’ eyes gleamed with love. He meant every word. She knew it like she knew how to breathe. This man was her world and would always be. No matter what obstacles life threw her way, there was no one else she wanted by her side. Her man, her mate.

“I’m yours, only yours,” she whispered and watched as his bear’s eyes flashed back.

“As I’m yours, my mate,” he answered before crushing his lips to hers.

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