“He smiled and tapped my nose. "Two thank-yous in as many days. I don't suppose I'll get to see any, uh, special gratitude?"I scoffed. "Nope. You'll just have to imagine it."He gave me a half-hug and released me. "Fair enough. But I have a good imagination.”

“I want you to know ..... 'I know this day is the most special day of my life."i smiled at him,imagining him smiling back at me. "Because this is the day we met.”

“He smiled at me. “Have a good time.” “Thank you.” The music was definitely working, I thought as I started to shut the door.“Don’t get laid,” he added.”

“I couldn't imagine that I'd ever fall in love again like I had with Gideon. For better or worse, he was my soulmate. The other half of me. In many ways, he was my reflection.”

“He settled in beside me, and I curled into him. Cocooned in Wes. God, it felt so good. “Thank you,” I whispered. “I’ve never felt so amazing.”“I wanted you in my life from the beginning, Mal. Any way I could have you.” He snuggled me closer. “Even if it meant just as friends.”I couldn’t help snorting. “Thank God that’s not the case.”He chuckled and gave me a squeeze. “Amen, my friend.”

“Papa taps on the skylight and I look up. He waves at me and smiles. I smile back. For now, I don't need to know what lies ahead. For now it's enough just to be here, safe aboard the Morning Star with my family and friends. For now, it's enough to be home.”