Page 18 of His Heart

Fresh tears fell from the corners of my eyes. “I can’t go back. She’s moving to Tucson and I can’t go with her. I can’t do it anymore.”

Liam wrapped his arms around me and pressed me close. “No way, Bee. You’re not going anywhere with her. Never.”

Mary rested her hand on my back. “You’ll stay here, with us.”

“Mom, are you serious?” Olivia asked.

“Yes,” Mary said, gently rubbing my back. “Can you share your room with her?”

“Yeah,” Olivia said, “of course I can.”

“It’s settled then,” Mary said.

Liam held me close and I rested my stinging cheek against his chest, listening to his heartbeat. “There, Bee. You’re safe now.”

Somehow, I knew he was right. I knew my mom wouldn’t come bang on the Harpers’ door and demand I move to Tucson with her. She’d just go, leaving me behind. She was probably throwing stuff in her car right now, relieved she didn’t have to deal with me anymore.

The enormity of it left me dizzy, and I was grateful for Liam’s strong embrace. His family had always been good to me, but this took my breath away. They were going to let me stay. Live here, with them. A real family. No more smoke and drugs, dirty houses, and creepy men. No more walking on eggshells, wondering which woman I’d find when I got up in the morning or came home from school. No more stinging cheeks and punishments for things I hadn’t done.

I wrapped my arms around Liam and held him tight. He kissed the top of my head. The relief that washed through me was so strong it warmed me from the inside, burning away my fear and shame. With Liam, I was safe.

With Liam, I was home.

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