Controlled Chaos (Love & Lyrics #1)

by Nikki Ash

Layla squeezes my hand. “She is. I can’t say I completely understand because my dad and I were never that close. He worked far too much and wasn’t around enough. But it still hurt when he died. Every morning on his way into the office, he would call me to say hi. The first day he didn’t call, it was hard. My heart hurt, and I cried. The next day, though, I was ready for the heartbreak. Each day got easier, my heart healing more and more. It still hurts, and I miss him, but it’s bearable now.” She looks at me, her brown eyes shining. “It won’t be today or tomorrow or the next day, but eventually, your heart will heal.” When she squeezes my hand again, I look down at our hands, remembering the last conversation Nanna and I had. I’ve never been the type of person to believe in fate. But right now, while I would give anything to have Nanna back, I’m wondering if maybe, as her last gift to me, she brought Layla and me together. Because had she not passed away, I’d still be across the country instead of sitting right here holding hands with the only woman I’ve ever loved. “I think you’re right,” I tell Layla. “I think my heart will eventually heal.”