Page 257 of Ignite

“What happens next, trouble?”

“Umm. I think you’re getting discharged early on the premise that?—”

I chuckle.

“No. Not medically. I mean, what’s next for us?”

“Oh.”

She sits up, twirling her thumbs in her lap.

“Hallie?” I prompt.

“Close your eyes and hold out your hand, beastie.” Her tone leaves no room for argument.

I do as she says.

I hear her rifling through her pocket, and something smooth, almost like paper, settles in my palm.

“Okay. Open.”

I look at her before I look down. She’s nervous as hell.

When I glance at what she’s given me, I swear to fucking god my heart stops.

Five weeks, two days. A little grainy blob.

“Surprise.”

My eyes fill with tears. I just stare at the picture, speechless.

“Hallie. Fuck. I don’t know what to say.”

I’ve never felt happiness like this.

This gives my life a whole new meaning. A purpose.

And to think a few hours ago, I was nearly a dead man.

Someone out there must be looking out for me.

Maybe I’m not all that bad.

Chapter 100

HALLIE

Why isn’t he saying anything?

Shit.

“Conan, I’m going to need something from you.”

Then I see a tear fall down his cheek.

“Oh, beastie.”

I carefully wrap my arms around him.

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