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She nodded. “For a long time, I settled for a lot less. But I won’t do that anymore. Zoey deserves a man in her life who won’t run when things get tough. And so do I. We deserve someone who will love us through the storms because trust me, I’ve got plenty of ghosts in my past.”
“You deserve the world,” he agreed.
“Atlas?” Her gaze searched his. The question hung in the air between them. Could he give her that? Yes. But he’d already gone back on his word. She deserved to be shown through his actions. He’d make this right.
“Can I say goodbye to Zoey?” he asked.
Jasmine stepped back, cringing away in rejection. Her eyes darted to the floor before she nodded.
Shit. He reached out his hand to her shoulder. “If you think for one goddamn second I don’t want you, you’re wrong.”
Her attention focused back on his face.
“I’m coming for you, Jasmine. I’m gonna prove just how much I’m in this. I’m gonna earn your forgiveness, and a place in your and Zoey’s life. Then I’m going to spend my days making sure the both of you know just how important and worthy and amazing you truly are.”
She blinked, tears falling. Fear and disbelief were painted across the curves and contours of her face.
It’s okay, sweetheart. I’ll show you.
“Now, let me give that girl a proper goodbye for now.”
She turned and walked towards the elevator. He followed her in before riding it down to the parking garage. He stayed by her side as she led him to the two SUVs parked side by side. Jasmine opened the door of the one closest to them, children’s laughter pouring out.
“Zoey? Atlas wanted to say bye.”
A moment later, a dark-haired angel climbed out of the vehicle, holding her mother’s hand. She looked up at him with a soft smile. “Goodbye, Mr. Atlas.”
He crouched down to her level. “You can call me Atlas if you want.”
She tipped her head to the side.
“I’ll see you again sometime soon, okay?”
“Otay.”
“Until then, can you do me a favor?” he asked.
“What?”
“Give your mommy an extra hug and kiss every night for me.”
Zoey giggled, looking at her mother. “I fink I can do dat.”
“Have a good trip home, princess.”
Zoey surged forward, wrapping her tiny arms around his neck and squeezing hard. Atlas’s eyes widened in shock. She’s hugging me. He smoothed his hand over her back, cherishing the connection. His eyes darted up to Jasmine’s as she wiped her eyes.
“Okay, sweetheart. We need to get going,” Jasmine said.
Zoey released his neck and pecked him on the cheek.
Jasmine picked her up and put her back in the SUV. “Buckle up.” She shut the door.
“Jasmine, I—”
“Atlas?” Veronica’s voice echoed in the garage, grating on his nerves. He closed his eyes, wishing her away.
“Oh, aren’t you that innkeeper? What are you doing in New York City of all places?” Veronica eyed Jasmine up and down.
