Everything Left Unsaid ~ The Hamilton Series ~ Book 4

~ Chapter 1 ~ Savannah ~

Savannah gazed through the window, shifting in her seat as the engines roared and their plane touched down. The aircraft slowed, the murmur of voices filling the cabin, along with the bleats of cell phones as the aircraft turned for the short taxi to the Logan International Airport terminal.

She closed her eyes and drew in a deep breath, holding onto the vivid memories of long sunny days at sea. It had required some serious sweet talk, along with major support and encouragement from her Uncle Tom, but Savannah coerced her dad into allowing her adventure. Tom's endorsement had filled her with confidence. Savannah is a mature young woman, Aiden. She's seventeen. You spent years away from your family, starting at a much younger age, and you managed just fine.

Not that her dad worried needlessly—he had solid reasons for concern. But, he'd understood her longing to experience life and become self-reliant, and after some discussion, they'd reached a happy compromise.

She'd never regret the three months away from home. As part of a small, but tight-knit sailboat crew, she'd shared the on-board duties in addition to studying Greek history, mythology, marine biology, and earning valuable sailing certifications. All with one of her best friends at her side.

A smile touched Savannah's lips as she studied the handsome young man who'd risen to retrieve their backpacks from the overhead bin.

"I'm sad we're home," Justin said in a deep low voice, a dimple appearing as he rewarded her with a heart-stopping grin. He'd morphed from the cute teenage boy Savannah had dated at fifteen into an attractive fully grown man. "But it's great your dad is allowing me to stay in Boston for a few days."

"Thanks, sweetie." She accepted her bag. "You do realize it's your reward for taking care of me while we were overseas. If you hadn't come, I swear he would've said no! Like he doesn't trust me to take care of myself!"

Fresh air rushed into the cabin as a crew member opened the outer door. They joined the crowd of eager passengers traipsing through the jet-way.

"It wasn't about trust." Justin frowned. "You've had several rough years, and he didn't want you to be alone, halfway around the world. With the panic att—"

"Don't remind me." She smacked his arm. "Besides, I kept it all under control."

"You did great." Justin nodded, his expression remaining serious. "I've noticed a huge change in how you handle things."

Savannah entwined their fingers, giving his a light squeeze. No doubt his words were sincere. During their three months abroad, she'd nurtured her inner strength, focusing on each new experience, refusing to waste a moment of the unique opportunity she'd been granted. Personal growth, her therapist would call it. For Savannah, it equaled a new perspective and appreciation of everything and everyone in her life.

Justin pulled her aside as they stepped onto the main concourse. "I meant every word, Savannah. And, I respect your dad for taking care of you. When you left Portland to live with a virtual stranger on the opposite side of the country, I worried."

"You didn't need to. Aiden's amazing." She cupped his cheek in her palm, rewarding him a gentle smile and a light kiss. "But, thank you for caring."

"Always. I will never forget our summer together." He linked his fingers with hers. "I bet your dad's waiting. Let's get out of here."

Savannah's smile widened as she tugged Justin toward the baggage claim. She dodged other passengers, while searching the endless sea of faces. "Dad!" She hurried forward, pulling from Justin's grasp.

"Vanna!" Aiden opened his arms, hugging her tight before he lifted her and swung her around. "Have I missed you!" He planted a kiss on her cheek before setting her on her feet. "You look great! How was it?"