Page 120 of The Originals

“Your life, the one you’re supposed to have, is gonna be beautiful. Better than anything I can give you.”

She shook her head.

“Yeah, it is. You’re gonna get what you deserve. All of it. I promise, darlin’.”

“But I love you.”

He felt it. And deep down in his soul, covered in a thick hardened shell, Jack loved her, too.

“I can’t give you what you deserve.”

“Yes, you can, and I…”

“No.”

She clamped her lips.

“Letting you walk away is gonna be the biggest sacrifice I’m probably ever gonna make.” He leaned closer, pressing a soft kiss to her lips. He lowered his voice to a whisper. “And I’m never gonna regret it.”

She smiled, wiping her cheeks and sniffling.

“You’re gonna leave. And you’re gonna promise me you won’t come back.”

He needed that vow, knowing he’d never being able to let her go a second time. When she remained silent, he whispered. “Promise me.”

“I won’t come back, I promise,” she whispered and turned, walking toward the bus.

****

Deep in her heart, she knew it was for the best. It didn’t make it hurt any less. Jack’s reasoning was honest and kind. And gut wrenching. It may have seemed desperate. She practically begged him to let her stay. But she would’ve regretted it had she not.

She drew in a deep breath, wiping her cheeks and straightening her shoulders. She walked to the pickup area and checked her watch. She still had about fifteen minutes if the departure was on time. Colleen glanced around the small groups standing on the tarmac. They ranged from older couples to families. There were a few loners like herself.

It would be a long ride alone with her thoughts. She just hoped she didn’t spend that time crying over what she’d lost. Colleen dropped her bag to her side and stared down at the opposite end of the road, waiting on the bus.

She was so lost in her own thoughts, she flinched when she felt someone come up behind her. Jack wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her against his chest. In true Jack fashion, he knew exactly what she needed.This. If she was leaving for good, the last thing she wanted to see was Jack Reilly.

She folded her hand over his bound at her waist and leaned against his chest. He pressed his lips to the crown of her head.I’m going to miss you. She dug her fingers into his hand, fighting against her tears. This would be the last time she’d ever see him again. But she’d kept a keepsake.

“I stole your sweatshirt, and I’m not giving it back.”

His body shook, and he pressed his lips to her temple, whispering, “It’s yours now.”

She wasn’t sure how long she stood there with Jack holding her. All she knew was that she needed it. Maybe it would make it harder once the bus rolled up. But it would be worth it to have just a little more time with him.

It was ironic. Ten minutes ago, she was praying for the bus, now she was wishing it away. When the bus came into her view, her heart sank. Jack’s hold tightened over her. Maybe he was feeling the same way. It was on the tip of her tongue to beg and plead, one last time. But she didn’t.

Colleen turned in his arms, and he never let her go.

“You’re gonna be great, Jack. Anything and everything you do.” Her tears streamed down her face. “It’s gonna be great.”

Colleen kissed him and pulled away from his hold. She drew in a breath.It’s over.

She grabbed her bag, hooking it over her shoulder. Her tears raced down her cheeks and she didn’t even bother wiping them away. She walked to the bus and grabbed the rail.Don’t look back.But how could she not?

She drew in a deep breath and glanced over her shoulder, expecting to see Jack walking away. Instead, she stared back at him, still planted in the same spot, watching her.

She sniffled, brushing her shoulder against her cheek, and slowly smiled.