Page 14 of Protector Book Boyfriend
Asa leans in, kissing my forehead. “So, this is the dream, yeah?” Asa asks.
“Yep. Full stop,” I say.
It’s been a long journey, but I’ve found happiness and stability for myself and my daughter. Asa, Zahara, Mr. Baxter, and everyone else who’s supported me have made all the difference. I glance over at Nia, who is now picking wildflowers and arranging them into a little bouquet. This land, this life—it’s everything I’ve dreamed of and more. It represents not just a new beginning, but the culmination of hard work, resilience, and love. And I couldn’t be happier.
Epilogue
Dylan
PORSHA’S DREAM HOME is finally complete, and her housewarming party is buzzing with life.
Family, friends, and the entire Trinity Falls Search and Rescue team fill the space with laughter and chatter. It’s a beautiful evening. I weave through the crowd outdoors, a couple of drinks in hand, and spot Asa and Porsha looking every bit the perfect couple, before my eyes drift to Sable, who's standing off to the side. Her gaze is fixed on them. Her expression is heartbreakingly familiar.I’ve seen that look before, and it twists something deep inside me. I walk over, handing her a drink.
“Hey, Sable. You look like you might need this.”
She takes it without looking at me, her eyes never leaving Asa and Porsha.
“Thanks, Dylan.”
I lean against the porch railing next to her, feeling the jealousy burn in my chest. “I know it’s hard seeing them together.”
She looks at me, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. “I always thought... maybe one day, he’d see me the same way...” she trails off.
I put a comforting hand on her shoulder, trying to ignore the pang of resentment.
“Asa cares about you a lot, Sable. You’re his best friend. But sometimes, people just don’t see what’s right in front of them.”
She shakes her head, a tear slipping down her cheek. “It’s not fair. I’ve always been there.”
I know the feeling. I nod, understanding her pain. “Life’s not always fair,” I say, “But you deserve someone who sees you, really sees you, for the amazing person you are. Someone who loves you back just as fiercely.” She sniffs, wiping her eyes.
“It just hurts. Seeing them so happy.”
“I know,” I say softly, keeping my voice steady. She manages a small smile, and I’m relieved to see a bit of the old Sable shining through. “Thanks, Dylan. You’re a good friend.”
“Always,” I reply, giving her shoulder a gentle squeeze. “Now, let’s go get some brisket before it’s all gone.”
We make our way to the food table, and I keep an eye on Sable, making sure she’s okay. As much as she’s hurting, I know she’ll be alright. She’s tough, and she’s got an entire support system behind her.
But I want to be the one she looks at the way she looks at Asa.
I catch Asa’s eye from across the yard, and he gives me a grateful nod. I nod back, silently letting him know that I’ve got Sable’s back.
