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“I’ve got it from here.” Stephanie smiled at the nurse. The nurse nodded and wished Bret luck. As she headed toward the elevator, Stephanie stepped up closer to Bret. He was pale and appeared to be sweating.
“How... It’s so early. I thought...” Bret stammered. He thought what, he’d slip away before she knew what was happening? Did he really think she was born yesterday?
Stephanie slipped an arm around his waist so he could lean on her. When he did, Stephanie could feel a vibration coming from his weak leg. She needed to get him inside the helicopter and sitting down before he did himself any real damage.
“I know you were trying to get rid of me yesterday. You gave me an out. I thought I was going to let you until I was editing the footage from yesterday and I realized I didn’t want an out. I don’t want to leave you. I want to see you through this and if that means I fly back and forth while you get healthy, then that’s just the way it is.”
Bret stared deep into her eyes and Stephanie felt at peace. She felt a bit of excitement, too. “And if I don’t get healthy? If I need a cane? Crutches? If things don’t get any better than this?”
“I’m not that shallow, Bret. I want to be with you, no matter what life has in store. I’ve fallen in love with you. Maybe you haven’t noticed but listen to me when I tell you, all I want is you.”
Bret caressed her face. “I never thought this would happen again. That a wonderful woman would give me her heart. But I’ll cherish it, Stephanie. I’ll protect it. I’ll love it sure as I love you. And I’ll show you every day, however I can. I just can’t promise what our future will be.”
“Then don’t make a promise. Let’s see to it together. Besides, there’s lunch on the helicopter. I brought sandwiches.”
“Ooo, sandwiches.” Bret smirked. “Well, why didn’t you say so?”
“And iced tea.”
“Now you’re talking my language.” Bret leaned forward and he kissed her. Stephanie hung onto him, keeping him up on his feet. Her new beginning had blossomed. Life was just beginning and she couldn’t wait to see what would happen next.