"What does that mean?" I ask, a soft giggle escaping me as I lean into his embrace.
"You're the light. Without you, my world is a dark abyss." His words are soft and firm, demanding attention. I peer over my shoulder, looking into the depths of his beautiful brown eyes as he continues speaking.
"You came into my world like the wild-haired, bright-eyed, annoyingly optimistic, radiant ball of feisty chaos that you are, and I haven't been the same since. There is no me without you. I've lived without you, and I was an incomplete puzzle; you were always the missing piece. You've lit up my life from day one, Rosie."
"So, did I think we would ever be here again? I'm honestly not sure, but I've always hoped my heart would be led back to its home."
I've spent so many years fighting against our love. I've quite literally done everything I could to destroy what was inevitable between us, all out of fear. Even after my attempts, we were still drawn to each other like a magnetic pull had its hold on us, and we had no control. I never thought life would lead me here. I never thought I would be led back to him, butspending my life with Ander is where I was always meant to be.
Three months later
"It is him! It's Bear Anthony!" The piercing voices echo through the coffee shop's quiet atmosphere as people approach us with their phones' cameras on and ready.
"Uh-oh, Mr. TikTok, it appears you've been spotted in the wild," I whisper with a giggle, and Ander grumpily rolls his eyes.
"This shit will never feel normal." He says with a grunt as his eyes lock with mine, turning to me for comfort.
I gently squeeze his hand, which is already interlocked with mine.
"Deep breaths, superstar."
Another eye roll.
"Can't people just say hello and continue their day? Why all the dramatics?" He whispers into my ear, his voice low and husky laced with annoyance before he pops his head up, forcing the most painful fake smile I've ever witnessed. I can't help but snort out a laugh, granting me a soft shove from Ander.
The truth is Ander will never be comfortable with being spotted in public. He's still reluctant to get the attention he receives. His popularity has spread like wildfire since he dropped more songs recently, and he's been recognized more frequently. He loves the music, but his quiet, introverted soul wasn't built for the fame.
After much convincing, he signed with a label, and his first tour will start in a few months.
His first stop isChicago. Chicago was supposed to be our city. It was where we dreamed of running off for college. It was wherewe were supposed to start our lives together. It's wild. The paths life maps out for you.
Maybe it was always in the plans; we just got them wrong.
The dreams we only hoped for ourselves when we were kids and didn't know much about life have become our reality. Instead of him chasing me around the world, I'll be following him.
I'll follow him anywhere. I couldn't ask for more.
Ander is chasing the music, and I will be right alongside him, capturing every moment through my lens.
We may have long months of traveling ahead, but the island will always be home—a safe place to land in between.
Our place.
Epilogue
VIA May 2025; One year later
Since Liam'sdisappearance,I have been able to breathe for the first time in my life. The cops are still searching for him concerning my assault but have come up short.
Everyone worried about me for months, waiting for the breakdown that never really came.
Free.Finally, free.
"What is all of this?" I chuckle as I walk into our home. It's currently lit only by the spread-out candles. I place my camera on the counter as I pad through the kitchen.
Making my way further into the dark house, my eyes peering around to find him.
"Helloooo?" I sing-song.
