There’s no more perfect way to fall asleep than having my arms wrapped around her while I breathe in her peaches and cream scent that is mixed with the scent of us and sweat.

There’s no more perfect way to fall asleep then having my arms wrapped around her while I breathe in her peaches and cream scent that is mixed with the scent of us and sweat.

We sit in an awkward silence for a few minutes before she speaks. “You’re right. There’s more to it.” I’m not sure if I should wait and let her speak, or if she’s waiting for an acknowledgement. I slowly turn my head toward her and settle my eyes on hers. “I went through a rough time a few years ago. I wasn’t sure things would get better for me. One day, Rick and Jo were able to knock some sense into me. When a Phoenix dies, it rises from its ashes to have a new life.” Her eyes leave mine as she rolls to her back and stares at the stars. “The tattoo reminds me of that. One chapter of my life may end, but that doesn’t mean a new chapter won’t come from the ashes. It probably sounds silly to you.

Fiery red curls catch my attention. I’ve never seen hair like hers. It’s long and hangs to just above her ass, but it’s not trashy looking. The curls are large and thick. If I were a descriptive man, I’d almost call her hair luscious. But, I’m not so I’ll leave it at fiery and thick.

Wiping my sleeve over my eyes, I clear the tears and smile at her. “Yea. I’m great.” Leaning over the bed, I lay a gentle kiss over her mouth. It’s not meant as a sexual kiss, rather a reverent kiss to show her how much I love her. But, if that didn’t convey my message, I move to her ear and whisper. “I love you so much. Thank you for this baby.” I bury by head in her neck while still holding her hand tightly. Her free hand strokes my head and tangles in my hair.