Page 64 of Be My Summer

“Unhook the latch,” he pled. “Please.”

With all the strength I could manage, I stood on my feet. I pushed the latch up, unlocking the porch’s door. Slowly, Saul pulled it open. His arms were like silk, wrapping around my body.

“I love you.”

“I love you, Summer. So much, baby.” He kissed the top of my head. “So fucking much.”

I couldn’t help myself. I sunk into his chest, releasing it all.

Everything.

Leaving nothing behind.

“Mmmm.”

My eyes were sore to the touch. Baffled, I stared up at the ceiling of the back porch, trying to find the strength to get up.

“Good morning,” Saul’s voice echoed in my heart.

I closed my eyes, remembering I had a reason to keep going. His love was enough to get me through this lifetime.

“Good morning,” I groaned.

“Spend the week with me. Let me take care of you.”

I had no words. I lowered my chin.

“Yeah?”

“Mm hm.”

Saul rolled over, on top of me. He peered down at me lovingly.

“We’re going to get through this, Summer. Together. All of it. Okay.”

“Okay.”

He pushed my hair back and rested his lips against mine.

“I have morning breath.”

“So do I.” He chuckled, pulling back. “Now get up, baby. Come lay in my bed.”

“It’s Sunday.”

“Work can’t have me this week. I’m all yours.”

His words lifted my spirit. His hands lifted my body.

“Yeah?”

“Yes, Miss Summer.”

“That would make me happy.”

“All I want to do is make you happy, so that works for me.”

Together, we showered and brushed our teeth. Saul locked the door behind us and helped me into his truck. Absentmindedly, I rode alongside of him, unsure of what the future held for me. But, what I was sure of was the man beside me and the love that had been birthed between us.