Page 89 of Theirs

***

Ben joins me as I complete the paperwork to legally change my name. He’s been smiling like a kid in a candy store, the entire time. When we leave from filing the paperwork, he takes my hand in his and lifts it to kiss my knuckles.

“My Lavender,” he says softly. “I love you.”

“I love you too,” I say, leaning in so he can give me a kiss on my forehead. “And I love the name you gave me. It’s perfect.”

My phone pings in my purse, and I pull it out to check it while we’re waiting at a crosswalk. Ben rests his hand on the small of my back, as I read the text. It’s from an unknown number, but my heart starts racing as I read it.

Hi, it’s Gisele from the ladies’ room at the wedding. I just wanted to thank you again for what you did for me, and for your boyfriend reaching out to my parents. You saved me, thank you.

Happy tears start to fill my eyes. As long as I was able to protect one person from that monster, it’s a start. Alex has been working on ways to put the monster behind bars, but it won’t be because of me since the statute of limitations expired for me. We were able to get a restraining order from him, but that’s all we can do for now. I’m glad Gisele’s parents headed Mac’s warning. This is only the beginning of seeking our justice, but it’s a good start.

“You okay, Lav?” Ben asks, as the crosswalk signals it’s okay to cross.

I nod my head, and put my phone back in my purse, wiping the tears from my eyes. “Yes, I’m perfect. Lunchtime?”

He winks down at me. “Are you on the menu?”

“I mean... your office is right down the block,” I tease. “But I could really use some actual food.”

Ben holds my hand and starts tugging me down the street. “I’ll order us lunch, and I’ll eat you while we wait.”

“Benjamin!” I squeal as we start running down the street hand in hand.

---