Dean crumpled green and red wrapping paper into a ball, hunting for clues around the exterior of the brown carton box. Curious about its contents, he prized it open to encounter a heart-shaped crystal with a card sitting on it.
The heart fit into his palm. He raised it to the light, seeing transparent gears inside it. Its bottom tapered outward, so he safely balanced the figurine on a flat surface. Nevertheless, he retained it in his hand and opened the card.
Babe,
Thank you for guarding my heart. Wherever you are, I am home.
I love you,
Allie.
The message delivered a grin to his face. Never had he imagined such profound and wholesome feelings for a woman existed. No one could take her from him. Not even death, he thought. He rubbed his thumb on the poli
