Rising from the Ashes

by Charity West

  “By then you’ll have had time to save up some money for a down payment on your own place,” Stan said. “For now, just enjoy the cottage.”

  Molly elbowed him again. “Go back inside. We’re holding them up. They’re newlyweds and will want to christen their new home.”

  My cheeks burned brightly at her words and Zarek chuckled. He led me back to the truck and continued following the drive around the side of the house. Nearly a football field away stood a small house in matching colors of the big Victorian, with a carport and cute little garden. He led me inside and let me explore on my own. All of our belongings were there, even down to my socks being in the same drawer where I’d kept them at the apartment. Aside from the kitchen looking different, and the room dimensions being a little bigger, it was just like going home to the apartment … except there wasn’t an oppressive feel to the space. It was light and airy and hadn’t been touched by Price’s evilness.

  “It’s perfect, Zarek.”

  He nibbled on my ear, making me smile.

  “You know, I think Mom had the right idea. We should christen our new home. And when we’re done doing that, I’m taking you out to dinner.”

  “Zarek, it’s barely noon.”

  “Then I guess we’d better hurry with the christening because it could take a while.”

  I laughed and held on tight as he carried me through our new home.

  I’d started out a woman running from her past, but now I was free. Like the phoenix on my back, I’d managed to rise from the ashes, and I was ready to tackle my new life with gusto. Whatever happened in the future, I knew I could handle it, as long as I had Zarek by my side. His love would keep me going, even when I thought I couldn’t go on. And, when the time was right, he’d heal my final wound by giving me another baby to love.

  Life was messy, but mine was just about perfect.

  The End

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