Page 110 of Long Story Short

I worked harder. I stayed focused. I threw myself into my job because that was the only place where things made sense. You put something in, you got something out. It wasn’t complicated. People weren’t like that, so I didn’t let anyone in.

I didn’t need them. Even after betraying my father, I didn’t open up to anyone. I didn’t have any intention of focusing on anything—anyone—but work.

Until this summer.

Until her.

I open the door to my car and slide in, dropping the folder into the passenger seat.

I met Josie, and for the first time, I couldn’t predict what was going to happen, and I was okay with that. I was okay with losing control because it was with her. For the first time in my life, not having control over everything felt right.

I turn the car on and think about her waiting for me at the hospital.

I think about the way she held on to her grandfather like she could keep him here just by refusing to let go. I think about the way she looked at me when I was there for her through one of her hardest moments. The way she looked at me like I didn’t have to prove anything, like it was enough for me to just be there for her—like I was enough.

She’s never once made me feel like I had to be anyone but myself. It’s the best feeling in the world because I’ve spent my entire life trying to become something for someone else.

And now that she’s with me, it changes everything. For the first time in my life, I don’t want to hide behind work and the control it gives me.

I want her—all of it.

One step at a time, just like I’ve told her.

The uncertainty, the risk, the way she quickly got under my skin and has stayed there ever since.

For the rest of our lives, I want to be the person she reaches for when things fall apart. I want to be a constant in her life. The person who chooses to stay, because she’s worth it.

She’s it for me.

The realization settles deep in my chest, the feeling completely undeniable.

For the first time, it doesn’t feel like I’m chasing something I’ll never reach. I’m not chasing anything; I’ve already found it.

I found her.

I found love with her.

Not only that, I found what I hope is forever with her.

FIFTY

JOSIE

“Take it slow,” I tell Pop as I stand in the entryway of my childhood home.

“Yes, slowly,” the nurse gently tells Pop as she guides him through the front door.

Tyson is right behind him, one hand hovering at his back, ready to catch him if he so much as shifts the wrong way.

I can’t help but smile.

Tyson hasn’t left his side.

He hasn’t left mine either. It’s been a little over a month since Pop’s stroke, and the entire time, Tyson has stood by us.

Pop moves slower than I’ve ever seen him move. Each step he takes is measured and deliberate, like his body is relearning something it used to do without thinking. My chest tightens at the sight. We didn’t know if he’d walk again, but he’s fought hard to move the way he is right now, and I’m so proud of him for that.

Things might be a little different from what they were before, but he’s here. That’s what matters.