A long time had passed. In fact, it felt like an eternity.

Jamie gently turned his face. He brought it close to Paityn's ear and savored the soft, downy feel. At that moment, she reminded him of Carol; she was also someone who needed his protection.

Paityn was quiet and docile when she nestled in his embrace.

"Paityn." Jamie's voice was rough. It was barely a whisper, and his drink-induced haze mostly cleared. Slowly, he stroked the top of her head softly. Then, it didn't feel enough, and he leaned down to kiss her.

She was his little puppy. This was the first time he’d called her that, yet it felt perfectly natural.

Maybe they should have been together all along. Jamie should have been Paityn's protector and her shield against the storm.

He shouldn't have left her to worry that their relationship might sour. He shouldn't have let her face difficulties alone and be afraid to seek his help. That was why she chose to bear it all by herself, to begin with.

Business matters were