Page 66 of Dreaming

Smiling, he carried her to the couch and devoured his wife for the first time in six weeks.

How he needed her.

How he ached for her.

How he loved her.

The realization of every dream he never knew he had.

Epilogue

April 2019

Nia glanced up as a woman was escorted into her suite in the Think Tank.

Every ounce of curiosity flared to life inside her as she stood from her workstation.

Hayden’s soulmate.

As beautiful as Nia had thought Amanda Lang to be based on her spreads in various magazines, she was almost too much in person. Hazel green eyes glowed from her golden skin and hair in every shade of blonde fell in heavy waves to her waist.

From a mathematical perspective, her body was proportioned in a way Nia had rarely seen.

Practically perfect in every way, as Miss Poppins would say.

Krystle smiled broadly as she made introductions. “Nia, this is Amanda Lang. Amanda, this is Nia Hancock. She’s been on sabbatical after having her little girl but you’ve worked together remotely.”

“I feel like I know you already,” Amanda said with a warm smile.

“Same. It’s great to meet you at last. I’ve missed this place,” Nia said truthfully. “It wasn’t easy to leave my daughter but her grandparents are giddy for time alone.”

“Not much and everything has happened,” Krystle said. “You were missed. I’m going to leave you two to get acquainted and check on Colin.” To Amanda, she added, “I’d like to talk to you about him later. I may need your help.”

Amanda nodded. As the director left, the young woman held out her hand with a brilliant smile that lit up the room.

Nia shook it.

As she did, Amanda murmured, “Numbers. It’s amazing to meet you face to face at last. I’m a huge fan of your work. Thank you for your help with my last project. I found out you were instrumental in tweaking my algorithms many times over the years.”

“A few years ago, Hayden was out of the country and had an epiphany for your soil analysis. He hates to wait but didn’t exactly have access to what he needed in the wilds of New Zealand. Once I dove into what he’d created, my brain got a little obsessed.”

“Believe me...I get it. I love everything you’ve done.”

“The admiration is mutual, Amanda. Your chemical analysis on the cavern stream three summers ago saved dozens. You seem to have settled in beautifully. Harlow and Krystle have kept me enthralled with stories. You’re an excellent addition.”

“Thank you. I just want to help. With...everything that happened, I wasn’t sure I’d still have the opportunity.” She glanced toward Nia’s desk to gather her thoughts. “Oh, goodness! Is that your little girl?” Nia nodded proudly. “Those eyes see straight into your soul.”

Nia liked her already and could see why Hayden would be drawn to a woman like Amanda. Being in her presence was like standing in the sun.

No one needed sunlight like Hollow.

“Right? I was thrilled to receive your three children’s books that have been published. We read to Davi every night and yours make us feel amazing.”

“Hayden gave you copies?”

“The man is Santa Claus.” Laughing, she added, “Those of us in the organization getting around to having children fascinate him. The moment your books are released, he has them delivered all over the world. He adores children.”

“So do I.” Amanda held her breath for a long moment. “H-Hayden would be an incredible father. He’s been great with Callileah but I-I know he regrets everything he missed.” She twisted her fingers together. “I…”

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