Raven was already a sophomore in high school, and talking about attending college in our city. I could see her moving into mine and Taylor’s second bedroom in a couple years or so.

Taylor’s father had kept up his routine of keeping the house tidy. He’d even begun some renovations on the place. Having a therapist on the case was helping with any potential relapse. Willa and her pack of pugs still lived in their own place, but the backyard became a puppy play zone that Raven was live streaming for subscribers.

I handed Taylor a box from inside my pocket. She opened the present quickly and gasped at the necklace I had for her. It was a gold charm of a champagne bottle.

“For the night I got you back.”

I was gratified to see her blush, knowing she was remembering our reunion on the dining room table.

She turned in my arms and lifted her hair so I could secure it. I leaned over and spoke into her ear. “I love you.”

She leaned back and responded, “I’ve loved you always.”

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

A huge thanks to you, the reader. I’m back again with another story and it is always humbling to know that I will find you letting it into your heart. My sincerest thanks.

To my beautiful family, T, J and D, I absolutely adore you and am so proud of all of you. Thank you for putting up with me.

A HUGE shout out to my parents, Steve and Valerie. I remember when we had the biggest RV in the early 90s and you two would be in the driver and passenger seats and Pam and I would sit on the hump so close so we could all chat. I love that even though we are states apart, we all manage to sit on the hump together. The longer I’m on the planet the more rare I realize you are. Bad ass, kick ass and incredibly kind—I come from amazing people. Sorry I write about sex so much. Thank you for all your incredible support.

Pam and Jim! Thanks for keeping my bedroom ready in NY I love you. To Jim’s mom Cathy, you are incredible.

Helena Hunting, Man has this been 13 years yet? I know we are close. Our friendship is getting pimples and having an attitude problem and I couldn’t be prouder of it. Thank you for this wild ride. I love you even though the entire country of Canada including you lie about the money smelling like maple. Hard truth.

Tijan, I feel like we have had the same conversation open for a decade. Like just existing next to each other, tossing out observations and news. My mermaid energy loves your guru energy.