“I still love you, too, Jake. No number of years could ever change that.”

He reached across the table and took my hand in his. His hand was quite a bit different than the last time I held it, but the touch was still familiar. And I had to admit that I had missed it. I had missed him. It was just a shame that I had not come back sooner.

We talked for a little longer before Jacob began yawning.

“I'm sorry,” he said. “It’s past my bedtime.”

The clock on the wall revealed that it was almost midnight. I hadn’t realized how late it was.

“I should probably get going,” I said.

He looked like he was about to protest but didn’t.

“I suppose you’re right.”

He stood up slowly and walked me to the door.

“It was nice to see you again, Bella.”

“Yeah, I'm glad I came.”

He opened his arms and I moved to hug him.

“You still my Jacob?” I asked.

“Always.”

When we parted I gave his hand a squeeze.

“I’ll see you again,” I promised.

“I’ll be here.”

With a last wave goodbye I headed back towards the road feeling a lot better than I had the last few months. I was glad I had come to see him, and even more glad that he was healthy and happy.

As I neared the end of the driveway I laughed to myself. I could hear voices from the door that if not for my enhanced senses I probably would have missed.

“Grandpa, who was that?”

“A friend.”

“I liked her. Is she coming back?”

“She’s too old for you.”

The door closed and I quickly made my way to the car. Once inside I started it up and pulled onto the road. It was time to head home. I couldn’t help but think that a part of me would always consider this place home. One thing was for sure, I would never forget it. I would have to come back and visit again soon if for only one reason.

Though older and wiser, Jacob was still the best friend I’d ever had and I would always love him.

——————-

THE END