“Uncle or not, he did save your life,” Livia pointed out.Blake bit his bottom lip and shook his head. Livia felt a wintry shiver as he licked his lips.“You saved my life, Livia. Only you.”

“Do you remember the pattern, Livia?”“Blow…lick…bite.” Livia wanted to say something cute, something funny, but he licked his lips and she forgot how to make any more words.”

“Blake shook his head at Beckett’s lack of manners but held the chair out for Livia. She sat and smiled at Beckett like he was a guest at her freaking wedding. She’s so damn happy.Blake accepted the two water bottles from a server with a nod of gratitude. He opened his first and handed it to Livia, taking her unopened one as his own. She bit her lip and smiled.Simple shit makes this chick crap bubbles and rainbows. Beckett shook his head, rattling his mental snow globe again.”

“I’m here for my brother, Blake.”The nurse glared at Livia. “Family only.”Livia bit her lip.“This is my wife,” Beckett explained smoothly.”

“Livia decided she loved watching things go into him. Food, water, love—all these things she could give him.“You look tired. Would you like to nap?” he asked. Blake was definitely back. There was less rasp and more smoke in his silky voice.“No, Blake. I never want to sleep again. Just this.” Livia touched his face. “Only this.”The pride in his eyes almost changed their color. He turned his face to her palm, kissed it, and said, “Come, my love, put your head on my shoulder. Your burdens have been heavy.”In that moment, Livia realized her eyelids were drooping, and the crook of Blake’s arm seemed perfect for her head. His lips stayed on her forehead as he hummed a serene song. Livia fell into a deep, dreamless slumber.”

“She kneeled at Blake’s side again.“Hey, handsome. I don’t have a signal. We’re going to have walk a bit. Let’s help you up.” Livia slipped her arm under his and tried to help him sit. He shouted, and Livia laid him down quickly.“I’m so sorry. Is it that bad?” Frustration curled her fingers.“Livia, it’s not good.” Blake hardly moved his lips.”