The Best Kind of Forever (Riverside Reapers #1)

by Celeste Briars

I turn around to face him. “Hayes, I⁠—” “Aeris, I love you,” Hayes professes, stunning me into silence. My heart plays pattycake with my chest. His voice stands at the edge of my mind’s bluff, echoing throughout my body. Hayes Hollings loves me. I never thought I’d hear those words. I’d accepted that I probably wasn’t destined for love—not after Roden and Wilder. I’d accepted that I’d never have a wedding, I’d never get married, and I’d never have kids. But within weeks, all of my preconceived notions about love have been turned upside down. I don’t know if I would’ve met Hayes if I wasn’t at the bar that night. I don’t know if I believe in soulmates or love at first sight. I’d like to think that we would’ve found our way to each other eventually, that the universe knew he was out there for me. “Hayes, I love you too.” The look on his face is nothing short of complete and utter happiness. A spectrum of emotions spike through me, and I’m starting to worry if I said it weird, but then he kisses me, and everything suddenly makes sense.