There were a few modeling agencies that poked around at one point, but I put that shit to an end quickly. If that was something she wanted to do, which I’m almost positive wasn’t the case, it could wait. She needs to make that decision after high school. I don’t care what the agencies say about girls getting started at a much younger age. It wasn’t going to happen.

As closely as I keep an eye on Emily, I don’t know what she wants in life. To me, she appears to be all over the place. Which can mean a lot of different things. I think she is trying to find her passion. That she doesn’t quite know where she belongs. It’s why she stays busy for the simple fact of staying busy. I know that one well because I do it myself. Nothing gets you through a day quicker than having a million things to do. That’s what I’ve been doing. Checking off each day as they pass.

“Chase,” she moans my name.

I’ve been itching to pull her into my arms since the second I slipped into the bed, but for once luck was on my side. It isn’t long until she has her sweet little body wrapped around me.

This is what I’ve wanted for so long. I match her breathing, wanting to feel connected with her. I don’t care if I sound like some sap or even pathetic. I’m past all that shit. More than that, I’m past all the bullshit keeping us apart.

Emily turned eighteen at the beginning of her senior year. She’s months away from turning nineteen at this point, but I told myself I am waiting for her to be out of high school. That’s only a few days away, but at this point, fuck it. I’m tired of being away from her. I can’t do this anymore. It’s hell.

I’m already going to have to work my way back into her life. She’s built walls so thick and high that it’s going to take me some time to get through them. But if I’m anything, it’s patient. I’m ready to begin rebuilding her trust in me. I’ve come this far. I won’t fail now. Not having her is not an option.

“Chase?” she whispers my name, and this time, her hand drifts up my bare chest. Suddenly it stills, letting me know she’s starting to wake.