Promise Me Not

by Meagan Brandy

“Just a little water,” he whispers, erasing the stupid tear that slipped without permission.

A frustrated groan leaves me, and I glance toward Noah, but he isn’t looking at me anymore. A slow smile is spreading across his face, a faraway look taking over, and I don’t have to turn to know who stepped out onto the deck. “Sister,” I call out to test my theory. “Brother.”

“Just so you know,” he begins. “It’s okay not to be okay…even if it’s not for the reason everyone thinks.”

His lips slide along my temple, and he whispers so low, I’m not so sure he intended for me to hear. “Where you are is where I want to be.”

So hear me when I repeat myself. I am not going anywhere. I’m here either way, because I love that little boy with every part of me. Maybe more than I love you, and I do, Payton.” She buries her face in her hands, but I keep on. “I love you.” I reach for her. “I fucking love you, Pretty Little, but I don’t know what to do anymore. I want you. Hell, I’ll take a tiny piece if you’ll give it to me.” “Stop.” “I’m dead serious. I can’t compete with a ghost, so I won’t,” I promise. “He can keep your heart for all eternity. Just let me hold you for all of mine.”