Rose’s POV

I stood there for a moment, unsure, staring down at Jasmine, who sat beside me. She had been my constant in all of this, there for me in ways I didn't have to ask. This, however, this was different.

My mouth dried. I swallowed. "Jasmine, I began, trying for firm but gentle. "Will you stay here with me?"

She furrowed her brow in query. "Stay with you?"

I jerked a nod, fidgeting with my hands in my lap. “Meaning. Stay here. For real. Through everything. At least for now, ...