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Back The Family Next Door Save as PDF
Chapters (117)
  1. Also by
  2. Title Page
  3. Copyright Page
  4. Epigraph
  5. PROLOGUE
  6. 1
  7. 2
  8. 3
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  10. 5
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  116. Teaser chapter
  117. ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Killed in the line of duty.

The paper was shaking so much that all the letters seemed to run into one another, and she tried to compose herself, to steady her heart and her hand.

As she began to read, the first lines took her breath away because there he was again, so utterly Adam-like he could have been standing next to her, murmuring in her ear.

Well, this is the ultimate fucker, isn’t it? Let’s hope I didn’t make some stupid mistake, and right this minute I’m being lauded a hero and the chief constable is showering you with medals for my outstanding bravery.

If that’s not the case, if I messed up somehow, I’m so sorry. There’s nothing in this world that makes me want to stay in it more than you.

But we both know if you’re reading this, I’ve already gone.

My love, don’t be torturing yourself about whatever it is that’s happened. I hope it was quick but even if it wasn’t, it’s over now. No more pain. I know that won’t be the same for you and I wish, more than anything, I was there to comfort you. But I know my girl is strong. You can—you will—get through this.

Do you remember that night we met? You were shouting at that guy in the bar with the octopus hands. I was off duty, elbowing my way through the crowds to check you were okay, but you didn’t need me. You flashed your warrant card and all that bravado deflated like a popped balloon. He offered to buy you a drink, and that look of scorn on your face—I think I fell in love with you right in that moment.

Never stop being unafraid to stand up for yourself. Christ knows, there are still some dinosaurs in the force.

You are the best person I know, Wild. You’re smart. You’re kind. You’re so damn beautiful. Persuading you to marry me has got to be one of the greatest triumphs of my life.

I’m not ready to go. I want to see the lines settle into your face. I want to share in the shining moments of your life and be there for you when the lights dim.

But I’ve got to step away for now. Never—not even for a moment—imagine that I wanted to leave.

And you deserve to be loved, darling girl. So don’t be afraid to let that happen.

There are people in our lives who brush past us, who bump shoulders and are gone. There are those who take our hands, who hold them and linger awhile longer, who touch us and don’t let go.

And there are people like you. The ones who fold their hands around our heart and keep us safe.

I never thought it would happen for me until you.