Chapter 13 - THE FIRST NIGHT WITHOUT FEAR
One year later, Mave saw Declan again.
She was leaving a hospital fundraiser when she heard a familiar voice.
“Mave.”
She turned.
Declan stood near the entrance.
He wore a dark suit.
Held a cane.
And looked healthier than she'd ever seen him.
Her breath caught.
“Declan?”
He smiled.
“Hi.”
She stared.
“You're walking.”
“Most days.”
Her eyes filled.
He approached slowly.
“May I buy you coffee?”
She laughed.
“It's nine at night.”
“Then dinner.”
She smiled.
“Better.”
They sat in a quiet restaurant.
Talked for hours.
About work.
Family.
Recovery.
And everything that had happened since she left.
Then Declan looked at her.
“Mave.”
“Yes?”
“Would you go on a date with me?”
She smiled.
“Isn't this a date?”
He laughed.
“I was hoping.”
Mave reached across the table.
May you like
Took his hand.
And whispered, “Then yes.”
