Chapter 122

“You have to be the Lisa I’ve known and loved if I’m going to be able to get over the pain that guy inflicted. I have to know that he lost, and you and I won. Don’t look for blame. Look for the pride and honor I felt that you would allow me to help you. I fear that in the future you will allow yourself injury or harm rather than seek my help. I can’t live with that. Guys like Jason, Brad, and me have a purpose in life. That purpose is to help good people, and hold bad people accountable. You have a purpose, too. Lisa, you bring joy to men like us with your smile, your humor, and your selfless love of family. Please tell me that I won’t lose that Lisa, the one I’ve fallen for so deeply. Tell me that you’ll always be willing to lean on me in times of trouble and allow me the pleasure and honor of helping you any way I can.”

Tears streamed down Lisa’s cheeks as she listened to Steve speak. “Oh, Steve! I do love you like no other. I promise I’ll always look to you for help in time