Devoted (Beneath the Mask #3)

by Luna Mason

She needs someone to protect her, to care for her, and that person is me. Even if my heart is in my throat the entire time.

I’ve never given my heart to anyone. I am certain this is the same. Just because I want to help her doesn’t mean I’m going to be madly in love with her. Even if she is the first woman in a long time to cause a spark in me just by being near her.

“I’ll see you later, then, little one.” He winks and snatches up his keys. It leaves me sagging against the counter, wondering what the hell is happening.

“Because I like you. Because I can feel your pain every time we’re in the same room. Although you may not, I see your potential. I want to help you stop hurting. I want you to be able to walk out of here when this is over and live your life. I had my life taken away from me, and I know how it feels to not be certain of who you truly are and where you belong.”

“This is your safe space. Your sanctuary. And I want to listen. Give me your demons, Rosa. Let them out of your brain and into mine. Let me take some of this pain from you.”

This is our home. For one more day. “No matter what happens next, my treasure, you will always be my home,” I say, meaning every single word.

Once someone steals the beating of your heart, that’s it. You either fight for it or live a miserable life without her.”

“You saved me,” she whispers. “I will always be there to save you, il Mio Tesoro.” I squeeze her hand tighter. “And I will always be there to love you.”