Nine Years Ago
I lean back against the trunk of the oak tree, head tilted up toward the sun that flickers through the flowers hanging overhead. It’s so warm today, I could sit here all afternoon just feeling the rays on my skin.
My eyes close as I enjoy the sunlight and soft breeze dancing across my face, breathing in the scent of the grass and the sweet smell of cherry blossoms swirling around me.
A finger touches my cheek, and I jump, eyes flying open as I look to my left, instantly finding steel grey eyes that are looking at me.
I smile unintentionally as Ryker crouches beside me, his gaze warm despite the naturally stoic expression he usually wears.
‘You came,’ he murmurs, his fingers still on my cheek as I nod.
‘You asked me to,’ I reply, my voice a little throaty.
Ryker nods s
