Epilogue
Sandy, Franklin, Jason, and Vicky had seen each other through the best and worst of times. But, tonight, tonight they were able to bask in their friendship and the love they shared for one another at their favorite place. The beach.
The gentle breeze was warm but more than anything it was peaceful. It was that time of evening where the sun kissed the ocean, and the waves licked at the edges of the sand. Each of them had memories here that they would cherish forever.
Sandy sighed as she laid her head on Franklin’s shoulder, “There are many beautiful places in the world, but I love this beach.”
Vicky’s actions almost mimicked Sandy’s. She leaned into Jason, “There’s nothing better than sitting around the fire, drinking wine, watching the sunset with the man you love, and your best friends.”
Franklin nodded and agreed but hadn’t said much for most of the evening.
Jason kissed the top of Vicky’s head, then spoke softly into her ear, “I don’t know. Maybe I can think of a thing or two.”
Vicky giggled and murmured quietly, “Okay, maybe except that.”
Sandy rubbed Franklin’s arm as she spoke softly, “Are you all right, you’ve been quiet tonight.”
“I’m sorry…I just have a lot on my mind.”
Concern was evident on her face, “Care to share? Maybe I can help.”
He took a deep breath, “Maybe, maybe you can.” Franklin got up from sitting on the sand, dusted himself off then kneeled down in front of her. He took her hand in his and gazed into her eyes.
Jason whipped out his phone to capture the moment on camera. It took him long enough, he almost thought Franklin was going to lose his nerve.
“Sandy, I know that I come with a lot of baggage. Being with me has not been nor will it ever be easy. But, I hope you know that I love you more than my life and that I would do anything in this world for you. You’re my best friend, my lover, and the love of my life. I want to be with you always.”
In the past, Sandy hadn’t been much of a crier, but it was impossible to keep her tears from rolling down her face. Vicky held her hand over her heart as she watched her friend pour his heart out.
Franklin reached into his pocket and pulled out a sterling silver, vintage ring box. He opened it. Inside was a beautiful five-carats, pear-shaped, ruby surrounded by diamonds and set in a platinum band. “I’ve searched long and hard for a partner in life. I hope you know that my search ended when I met you. Sandra Elizabeth Catchings, will you marry me?”
For a moment, there was just silence, except for the crackling of the fire and movement of the waves lapping against the seashore.
After what felt like an eternity, Sandy responded, “Yes!” She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him with everything she had. He returned it with just as much fever and passion.
For the first time in Franklin’s life, he felt like he could do anything, and that life was just beginning. And, Sandy would finally have her version of happily ever after.
Author’s Note
Mental Illness is a disease that affects nearly 1 in 5 Americans adults. Please, if you know someone who may be in crisis or if you think you may be in crisis, contact the National Alliance on Mental Health at 800-950-NAMI.
I hope you enjoyed The Battle Within – Franklin and Sandy’s Story. If so, please take a moment to leave a review.
Please look out for Out of Nowhere – The Final Chapter COMING 2016.
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Other Books by LaShawn Vasser
Out of Nowhere (Book 1)
He is the CEO of CkR International, Inc., a billion dollar company. She is a struggling single mother working for his company in customer service. What happens during a chance meeting in his company’s elevator will change their lives forever. Take the journey with Vicky and Jason as they fall in love. Will they overcome past hurts, society’s demands, and family expectations?
Adult content and steamy love scenes.
NEW BEGINNINGS (Book 2)
Just when billionaire Jason Kincaid Rutherford was on the cusp of living happily ever after with the only woman who’s ever lit a fire within him, tragedy strikes. Will it leave her so broken that her heart doesn't have room for him? Not if Jason can help it. Continue on with the journey of Jason and Vicky as they face their biggest challenge yet.
This is the follow up novel to "Out of Nowhere" Adult content.
LOVE, LIFE, and VOWS (Book 3)
Jason and Vicky have fought hard for their relationship. They've overcome differences in culture, race, and social status. They've withstood an almost unimaginable tragedy and come out on the other side stronger than ever. Or, so they thought.
Follow along as Jason and Vicky's love is pushed to the breaking point after life takes a devastating turn. Will they ever find their happily ever after?
The Stranger Next To Me
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Pieces of Me
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MEGA-AX1 the Inferno
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The next crisis: an inferno that threatened way more than the world as we know it. It also threatened to consume Jessie’s heart leaving ashes in its wake.
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This book is for mature readers only. It contains a sizzling adventure filled with adult content.
The Battle Within Page 20
