The Deepest End of Love (The Brightest Light #3)

by Lisina Coney

I’ve always found it interesting, the concept of soulmates. How, by chance or fate, you’ll meet a seemingly insignificant person who will end up becoming your entire universe.

“I have many interests and great organizational skills. Why would I force myself to fit one box when I can do it all?”

“I think you’ve always worried too much about what other people think of you, Lila, and it’s getting out of hand.”

Nobody gives a shit about what you do or don’t do with your life.” Ouch. “People are obsessed with their own lives and problems, which is completely normal. They aren’t as focused on yours as you think they are,”

but you’re being stubborn because you’re scared. You don’t want to take a risk and do what you know is best for you, and that’s your prerogative. This back-and-forth won’t get us anywhere.

“Talking to you is never a waste of time, Lila.”

also twenty-four now—my birthday was last month—which means I should have my shit together. Which, again, means no room for obsessive overthinking.

“It’s loud in here today.” She chuckles. “And isn’t it the most beautiful sound?” It really is. Around us, kids and teenagers hug, chat, or play games together, the warm atmosphere only confirming that I’m in the right place.

She used fictional characters who dealt with similar problems to make Maddie realize she wasn’t alone, and everything had a cure. She started healing from her emotional wounds thanks to books, which then inspired my mother to write hers.

“I have no right to complain because I have a good life. I’m so thankful for my family and my good health and everything else. I just feel like… I don’t know. Like I haven’t done anything to deserve this life. It was just… handed to me.

don’t get the chance to stand from my chair before her body crashes into mine, her arms wrapping around my neck in a sealing hug that allows me to really breathe for the first time in my goddamn life.

“You once asked what keeps me calm,” I rasp out, my fingers itching to move closer to her waist. “I called you because it’s you, angel. You keep me calm.”

The most insane, derailed thought crosses my mind after reading his text.

“Out of all the women in the world, Reed, why my daughter?” “Because she’s the only woman in the world for me.”

emotion that it makes me breathless. “I think I knew the moment I met you that we had something special. My future had always been dark to me, unclear—I never saw happiness in it. But then you showed me love, real love, and everything started taking shape. I imagined things I never allowed myself to, like having kids and growing old with someone. You are my life, my angel, and I want to spend the rest of my days with you. “I love you, Lila. More than I’ve ever loved anything and anyone in this world. Will you marry me?”

To my late family dog, B. Your memory will always live on with us. We love you and hope you are happy, healthy, and spoiled wherever you are. Ginny is for you.