Page 75 of Bleed for Me

“I love you.” Mick says softly, my heart breaking open as he continues. “The words aren’t enough. No words ever will be. But I need you to know, little bird.”

I blink back the moisture filling my eyes. “Say it again.” I whisper.

Mick's eyes light up. “I love you.” He murmurs, leaning forward and pressing a kiss to my cheek. “I love you.” Another kiss on my other cheek. “I love you.” Kissing my forehead. “I love you.” He whispers in my ear before biting the lobe.

I shiver and place my hands on either side of his face as he pulls back. Pouring every ounce of emotion I can into the words, I profess, “I love you too.”

Epilogue

Paige

6 years later

Our screams startle the few other patrons in the restaurant.

“Oh my god!” I cry, gripping Taylor’s hand. She beams at me as I admire the ring nestled on her finger. “It’s gorgeous.” I drop her hand and tug my best friend into a tight hug. She giggles while embracing me back.

It’s been a long road but we were able to get past my disappearance and lies. There will always be a divide now because I can’t share with her Mick's extracurricular activities but nothing will keep our friendship apart.

Part of me still feels guilt over that part of my life, but Mick has promised to only hunt those who truly deserve it. Sometimes I join him when it’s an especially nasty one, but for the most part the Blood Shadow still operates on his own. At my urging, he stopped staging the bodies and now destroys all evidence.

I’ve already had to live through thinking I would never see him again and I have no desire to do that again.

My mind drifts to thoughts of Mick and I getting married. I suppress a shudder. While I am ecstatic for Taylor, the thought of marriage for me only brings up reminders of Seth. Mick and I have made it clear how we feel about one another. He has not brought up a desire to move to the next phase in a relationship, for which I am thankful.

Taylor laughs again as we pull apart. I can’t help the grin at her infectious joy. “I’m so happy for you Tay.”

“Thanks, babe. I just still can’t believe it!” She exclaims as we take our seats again. “I’m getting married! Who would have thought?” Taylor’s chuckles fade, a horrified expression overtaking her face. “Oh my god, Paige. I’m so sorry. I didn’t think…” I wave her off.

Seth had been declared a missing person shortly after my return and as the years passed, the news about his disappearance waned. He was officially declared dead a few months back so the reminder is still fresh in everyone’s mind.

“Don’t even Taylor.” I warn jokingly, raising an eyebrow. “This is not about my stupid ex. You are getting married and I am ecstatic for you.” She eyes me warily, clearly wanting to accept my assurance but also concerned. I reach forward and grip her hands in mine. “I’m fine. I have a great life and a hot as hell man.” I wink and the remaining tension in her shoulders releases.

“Of course. How is Mick?”

Releasing her hands, I pick up the menu as I reply. “He’s amazing. But-” I sigh, looking back up. “He’s been gone at this business convention for a week and I really fucking miss him, you know?”

Taylor pats my hand sympathetically even as her eyes shine with happiness. “He’s good for you.” I’m startled by the declaration. Taylor continues in my silence. “I’ve never seen you so happy as you are with him. You deserve that. Happiness, I mean.” She gives me a soft smile.

My own lights up my face. “You do too. Now, can we get back to your wedding? Because I need all the details, future Mrs. Wyland.”

And all the details I get. Taylor and I spend the next several hours going over every moment of the proposal and all her plans for the big event.

My phone pings as we are saying our goodbyes. I pull it out while making my way to my car. My pulse races as I read and reread the message. Jumping into the car, I slam it into drive and take off.

Mick:

Naughty little bird. Better hurry home or your punishment will only be worse.

Shit. Fuck. Iknewthat was a bad idea.

The entire drive home was filled with mental berations. I had thought it would be worth it but the closer I get to the house the less sure I am.

I pull up the drive to our secluded home.

One major perk of being with the owner of a construction company is building a dream home nestled in our own private space. The house is a simple cottage style. A chimney peaks out of the staccato roof. The outer walls are built with clay-like brick, giving the appearance of a fairytale cottage. The long driveway leads through the woods up to the garage to the left of the house. A cobbled walkway connecting the garage and the house. Even after seeing it every day, the home usually brings me peace.

Not today though.

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