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James’s eyes squeeze shut as he laughs. “What am I going to do with you?”
I snuggle into him, careful not to put pressure on my arm. “Just love me. Because I love you with my whole heart, and I will always take a bullet for you.”
“Okay, well, let’s hope that never happens again.” He tips my chin and presses his lips to mine. “I love you, beautiful. More than anything in this world, with all of my heart and soul, I love you.”
“You realize this was the third break-in in the past year. I think I should be in the Guinness Book of World Records.”
“Save your twisted humor for Leo.”
“Too soon?”
“Definitely too soon.”
“Fine.”
I stare up at the beige siding along the front of my house.
Home, sweet home.
After needing surgery on my arm to repair the damage from the bullet and spending the last few days in the hospital, I’m ready to get back to my normal life. I blow out a contented sigh and lean my head back against the headrest in James’s car.
“Dad, Leo, and I cleaned up the mess in the living room.” James squeezes my hand. “Are you nervous about going inside after what happened?”
I shake my head. “I just want to take a minute to appreciate everything. This house. My father for leaving it to me. You and your wonderful family.”
“There’s a lot to be grateful for when you stop and think about it.”
“I want to keep doing that—stopping to be in the moment and appreciate everything I have. I never used to do that before.”
James hums as we stare up at our houses.
Just a few months ago, I was scared to walk into this house. Now, it’s the only place I want to be.
“All right. I’m ready.”
James helps me out of the car, and I adjust my sling as I walk toward the house. Wilbur barks from inside the second my feet hit the porch, and he bounds out the door when James unlocks it.
I pat his head as I step inside. “I know, I know. I missed you too, bud.”
James takes my hand and leads me down the hallway.
“Hey, what’s the rush? What are you—”
“Welcome home!” Jim, Leo, Phil, and Sadie clap as my eyes bounce to each familiar face. AWelcome Home, Phoenixbanner hangs over the mantel.
But my tears don’t well until I spot one more person standing in the corner.
“Tyler. What are you doing here?”
My brother smiles and comes to stand in front of me. “I got a phone call from James, and he said you were hurt and needed surgery. I’m sorry I couldn’t make it sooner.”
I squeeze him with my good arm as tight as I can. “Ow. This hurts, but I don’t care because I’m so happy to see you.”
Tyler chuckles as he wraps his arms around me. “Gabby sends her love. We’ll bring Jenna over the summer when she’s a little older.”
I pull back and look up at him. “How long are you in for?”
“The weekend. Just enough time to get to know your new boyfriend.”
