Page 66 of Shielding Maya

He kissed her lips softly, looked into her eyes once more, then turned to find Reece and set the wheels in motion for a funeral and burial.

He watched Maya stride across the common area to his parents’ cabin, pride filled his heart. She was amazing.

Reece met him near the fire. "How are you?"

"I'm fine. We have Jacobs and the assailant in the church. The special operatives are debriefing them."

Reece nodded.

"Reece. My father passed. We'll need to build a coffin and prepare for the funeral. I need you to set things in motion for that, please."

Reece reached a hand out to him and he took it. "I'm sorry Jasiah. That's rough. He was a good man."

"He was. Thank you."

"I'll get things rolling. We'll build the coffin right next to the fire here. If you want to get the tools, I'll get the men to bring the wood."

"Thanks, Reece."

He moved to the shed where the tools were kept. It felt good to have a duty to focus on. He managed a deep breath without that squeezing pain as he opened the door to the shed. His mind went in a thousand directions, but he knew what needed to be done next and that was a start.

38

Maya sat on Jasiah's bed. Her back against the wooden headboard he'd made with his own hands. Knowing how handy and creative he was made her heart happy. Her visit with his mom had been difficult, and she cried in Lili's arms. She'd only just met him, but he was Jasiah's world. Lili was strong and gracious and Maya found a new pride in this family as they prepared to bury a loved one.

She'd watched out the window a few moments ago, and saw the men building the casket for Gerard. They worked together and it seemed symbolic and poignant. She was happy Jasiah had this group with him. She was proud once more of his strength and adherence to rituals.

Tapping her mom's photo on her phone she lifted it to her ears. "Hey, honey, how are you?"

"Hi, Mom. I needed to hear your voice."

"Oh, Maya, what's wrong?"

She inhaled a deep breath, "Jasiah's father passed away today."

"Oh, honey, I'm so sorry. Is there anything we can do?"

"Can you come here before Thanksgiving? I could sure use hugs from you guys."

"I think we can absolutely make it down there before Thanksgiving. Should we come for the funeral or after?"

"I'd appreciate it if you could come for the funeral. But, it's tomorrow."

"Oh." Her mom was silent for a moment. She heard whispering and knew she was chatting with her dad. "We'll be there tomorrow afternoon."

"Thanks, Mom. I sure do appreciate it."

"Honey. We love you so much. I can't wait to wrap my arms around you and hold you close. And, we're looking forward to meeting Jasiah."

"Same for me, Mom. Tell Dad I love him. I love you too. See you tomorrow."

"We both love you, baby girl."

The call ended and she took a deep breath. She removed her clothing and slipped into the bed, which felt impossibly large for only her. Jasiah's pillow smelled of him, that woodsy scent she'd fallen in love with. Pulling it toward her, she buried her face into his pillow, wrapped her arms around it, and fell asleep.

Awarm husky body slid in behind her and wrapped his arms around her. She inhaled the scent of wood and witch hazel and musk. Jasiah was home.

He kissed her ear and whispered. "I love you."

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