"Thank you. I'm glad you still like them."
After a prolonged pause, Jackson ran a hand through his hair and inhaled deeply. "Elisabeth, I have no idea how our relationship will weather this. What I do know is I can't lose you. I need you in my life. I will try to do whatever it takes to keep you there."
"I love you and I know if we both work at it we can get beyond this."
"Can we spend the day together tomorrow?"
"Oh, I'm guest lecturing at Rhode Island School of Design."
"What if I came with you, maybe we could go to the beach afterward?"
"You want to attend my lecture?"
"Sure, as long as there won't be a test."
"All right, why don't I pick you up at seven? I already have the things I need in my car."
"Great, I'll be ready. Goodnight"
"Sleep well."
Sarah peeked around the door. "You need anything?"
"No, I'm good, come on in."
She sat on the bed. "You look exhausted."
"Yeah, I feel like I've been hit by a truck. I'm spending the day with Elisabeth tomorrow."
"Wonderful!"
He met her eyes, then closed his and swallowed hard, fighting back tears. "I can't lose her, Sarah."
She hugged him. "You won't, I just know it."
Jackson slept deeply; his dream stayed with him most of the night. The pure joy of it chased away all his doubts.