Page 94 of Found in Wild Sage

“I have not been honest with you, Evie.”

At this point, I have no response. I’m trying not to freak out, but I don’t know where he’s going with this.

“I’m pretty sure I was in love with you long before all of this came up. Before I ever offered to marry you.” His eyes search mine, flicking back and forth as though he’ll be able to read my mind if he focuses hard enough. “You were so worried about what I’d get out of this, and I couldn’t tell you that what I’d get was the chance to be near you. To help you. And even though we said there’d be no physical element, I would be lying again if I claimed I didn’t harbor a secret hope we’d end up just like this.”

His face is stormy, as though he’s expecting punishment or censure. But I have none for him. Because, “Same.”

His brow furrows. “You⁠—”

I chuckle. “Yeah. I mean, I didn’t think there was any way you could feel the same, but yeah. Deep down, I can’t deny I hoped.”

He cups my face and steals a searing kiss. When he pulls back, he’s smiling. “I love you, Evie Hansen.”

“I love you, Declan Ryan.”

That smile turns even brighter. “I know we married for Charlie. But I want to stay married for us. For good.”

It’s my turn to beam, and of course, tears slip out as we kiss again. “Me, too. I’m so happy you said that. I—I know we didn’t come into this thinking that, so if you want to do any different post-nuptial agreements or whatever, I want you to be comfortable.”

“I have nothing that isn’t yours, Evie. Nothing.”

He pulls me into his arms and we hug.

“So we’re staying together?” The utter terror I would’ve felt asking this question days ago is gone, replaced by hope.

His expression is relaxed and sure when he responds. “If you’ll have me.”

Grinning, I vow again, “I do.”

He tugs at the sheet, joy and mischief entering his gaze. I laugh, but let him win, and revel when he says, “Thank God. I do, too.”

CHAPTER FORTY-FOUR

Declan

The next few days turned into weeks of what I can only describe as bliss. The mundane moments are the ones I hold closest.

Waking up to see Evie sleeping next to me, arms hugging one pillow and legs rucked up over another.

Walking in to get Charlie ready for the day only to find him grinning with hair wild and tummy rumbling.

Carrying Evie’s bag all the way home and setting it on our kitchen counter.

Even cleaning up after the three of us is a simple joy right now. I worried I might struggle with the messes and additional stuff in my space, but thus far, the small piles of toys and occasional crumbs serve as reminders of what I’ve gained.

Along with developing our routines, we’ve also learned more about each other. I’ve gotten a glimpse of just how much Evie loves Stranger Things and her even greater passion for chocolate ice cream. And she’s gotten to know me.

I don’t know why I’ve felt shy about telling her my plans. But when I mention to her that I’ve been slowly building plans for a senior living community, she gives me one of those looks that make me grateful Charlie’s already in bed.

It’s happy and proud and makes me love her even more.

“That’s incredible. I’d love to help however I can.”

It’s sincere and there’s a prick of real excitement, like maybe I’ve said enough and she’s seen enough to catch my vision.

What a dream it would be to work on it with her.

“Does your family know about this?”