Breathe With Me (Playing For Keeps #5)

by Becka Mack

I inch along the path of flowers and candles, stepping out of my slippers when I reach the end, feeling the warmth of the blankets below my feet as I stop in front of the fireplace, a final note resting on the mantle. My hands shake as I unfold it, and I laugh despite myself as tears run down my cheeks. Cara, I have so much to say. Endless thoughts I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to put into words. I’ve thought about this moment for an entire year, and at the end of the day, what I really want to say is … thank you. Thank you for taking a chance on me. For opening your heart and letting me see it, learn it, and hold it. Taking care of it has been my greatest blessing. Thank you for being willing to go to war for me. For supporting me, seeing me, laughing with me, and crying with me. Because of you, I know what it feels like to be certain someone is always in your corner. Thank you for taking my heart, for holding it gently, and keeping it safe. It’s felt at home every step of the way since I found you. Thank you for showing me what it means to be brave. To be bold. To fight for what you want. I thought I was strong before you, but I know now: I’m strong because of you. I am who I am because of you, Cara. Because you love me in ways I didn’t know existed. Because everything made sense the first time we kissed. Because I found a home in your eyes, your arms, and your heart. Because with your hand in mine, I can breathe. How fucking lucky am I? “Don’t cry, firefly.” The note c...