Page 76 of Deep In Love
Will do. How’s the boat? Tell Charlie you’re head over heels for her?
Actually, yes.
Wait, what?
Seriously?
She told me I smell like a summer breeze.
What does that even mean?
I don’t know, but I love it.
*you love her.
You and Amy have gottenclose.
I see what you’re doing.
I don’t know what you’re talking about.
Amy is making it difficult to leave.
So stay.
You know I can’t.
Just wanted to let you know Fergus will be well cared for.
I expect a full update when you’re off the boat.
Oh, and next time, you’re visiting London.
Deal.
“Why are you smiling at your phone?” Vivian asks, “Did Charlie text you?”
Her question is teasing, but she’s cut off from adding any more when Shaun radios that the ROV is being pulled from the water and she can release controls. She sighs in relief, shutting down different functions before disabling access and collecting her things.
“I’ll see you tomorrow, Vivian,” I say, ignoring her comment.
I’m ready to slip into bed beside Charlie and pull her against my chest to feel her heartbeat—a slow and steady rhythm singing me to sleep.
I’m halfway out the door when Vivian calls out, “Have you always known?”
“What?”
“About Charlie.” She doesn’t elaborate, but her meaning is weaved between words.
“She’s far rarer than any species we’ll see on this trip. So, to answer your question, yes. I’ve never had a doubt about Charlie.”
It’s hard to live your life by absolutes. The world is complicated—messy and ever-changing. But she is my one absolute; my heart begins and ends with her.
Chapter 23
Charlie
Light filters into the room, blinding me, before darkness quickly returns.
