Emmy slipped her hand into his, looking up at him. “I got here yesterday.”
She glanced out the window at the sky as it faded from gray to deep blue. Her voice softened. “So, is your mission finally over?”
James nodded. “Yeah. We caught the leader, took out their base. I don’t have to handle the rest.”
He hesitated, his eyes darkening a little as he turned to her with a quiet apology. “I’m sorry, Emmy. I promised I’d come to Boston and spend New Year’s with you. I really thought I’d be done in time, but their leader just wouldn’t give in... Looks like I won’t make it.”
Tomorrow was New Year’s Day.
Emmy just smiled, shaking her head like it was no big deal. “But I’m here now, aren’t I? As long as I’m with you, it doesn’t matter where we celebrate.” She paused, then her fingers moved to the buttons of his uniform, her voice turning serious. “All that matters now is that you heal. Let me see your injuries.”
James caught her hand, looking down at her with a crooked, teasing grin. “The doctor just finished wrapping me up. You want me to undo it all so you can take a look, then do it over again? I don’t think I can handle that.”
Emmy pressed her lips together, knowing he just didn’t want her to see. She squeezed his hand tighter, her stubborn side showing. “Alright. I won’t look. But don’t just stand there. You should lie down for a bit.”
She started to lead him toward the bed, but James gently pulled her back into his arms. He hugged her close, pressing his face into the curve of her neck, breathing her in. Her scent was comforting, soothing something deep inside him.
“Don’t move,” he whispered, his voice muffled and tired, but full of longing. “Let me hold you a little longer.”
Emmy’s chest tightened. She lifted her arms and wrapped them around his waist, pulling him closer. James nuzzled the side of her neck, sending a shiver down her spine.
“In a bit, I need to check on Will.” His voice was low and heavy. “After that, I have to stop by the base for a debrief. I might not be able to see you until late tonight.”
Emmy’s fingers slid through his damp hair. She felt a small scar under her touch and her heart ached. “It’s alright,” she said softly. “Do what you have to do. As long as you’re safe, I won’t worry. I’ll be right here, waiting for you.”
Those words—waiting for you—were like a gentle magic spell.

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