AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Little one?” Julian’s voice is a low rumble.
His hands fold around my arms, holding me steady. But I can’t bring myself to look up at him. I reach up and grab his fine wool coat before resting my head against his middle. My body shakes as I continue to cry.
“Come with me,” he says, wrapping his arms around me tightly and guiding me down the hall and into his office.
He settles me in a chair across from his desk and kneels in front of me, placing a finger under my chin and guiding it up until we’re eye-to-eye.
“Tell me what’s wrong.”
“You’re leaving me,” I wail as fresh tears stream steadily down my cheeks.
He clicks his tongue. “Who told you that?”
“Dr. Nelson,” I blubber. “I just had a meeting with him, and he said you resigned.”
“I did resign. From the university. Not from you, Megs.”
His voice is soft and soothing, and soon, my tears dry up.
“But you haven’t called me or anything.”
He sighs and moves to sit beside me. “I’m sorry, but a lot has happened since I returned to Danville. You were right about Stephanie. She filed a complaint against me, but I was ready for her.”
“I figured as much when Dr. Nelson told me Stephanie was gone.” My eyes seem to finally open, and I notice the boxes scattered around the office. “You’re really leaving Danville?”
“I only came here for one reason. You. And if I don’t have that, why stay?”
“You can have me, Julian. All of me. Please.” I want to get down on my knees and beg him to come back.
“I want that more than anything, little one. I’ll come back when I can keep the promises I make.” He stands and bends to kiss me softly on the cheek. “I’m meeting a friend for drinks. Stay if you want.”
He brushes past me, and I hear the door open and shut. My chest aches, but I cling to his words.
I’ll come back when I can keep the promises I make.
Be patient,I tell myself.
Easier said than done.
