I love you, Ella May and nothing will ever change that. You can push me away -run away – and I will still love you.

I just let the pain take over, allowing it to numb the pain of being left behind.

I'm just here,existing at the surface of the water,not quite drowning but not quite able to breathe.

For the rest of my life?" His voice softens. "Do you want that, Ella May? Do you want me eternally, infinitely, forever, till death do us part?

Okay, I'm going to be completely honest here." I take a deep breath, because what I'm about to say is very real and more honest than I've ever been. "I don't want to be awayfrom you for that long.

Don't be sorry, Callie,' he says with a heavy-hearted sigh. 'You have your own sad story.

Stay here, baby" he whispers, like he can read my thoughts. "Trust me, okay? Don't run