The Hurting Kind

Silent Goodbyes

She knew it was going to be painful - leaving this man that had staked claim to her heart. But it had to be done. The thought of him giving up his position as CEO for her was just too much to take. So, while being in his arms as he fell asleep, Maya turned to face Rick, softly kissed his waiting lips and listened to his steady breathing to start.

Once she was sure that he wasn't awake, she quickly and quietly made her way out of their bed and then collected her things. While closing the bedroom door behind her, Maya took one last glance at Rick while he slept.

This is what you need, Rick. I can't let you lose Forrester Creations - I love you too much to.

8 Hours Earlier...

Maya couldn't believe it! Rick punched Bill Spencer in her defense! Though more than that - he still loved her. There was hope for them to be together and she was so thrilled! The smile on his face as he looked at her was blinding.

"I love you, Maya Avant. That is all that matters to me. I want to be with you, if you'll still have me that is."

She was speechless. Awestruck really - Maya tried not to cry - she did, but she was quickly losing that fight. He looked into her beautiful brown eyes and gently wiped away her tears.

"Rick, I love you, but are you sure? I know how much Forrester Creations means to you. It -"

The feel of his lips crashing down on hers was electric. She melted into his embrace even more and couldn't stop the moan that left her if she had tried. She could feel him smiling before he parted.

"You clearly don't know how much you mean to me, Maya. For that I am sorry, but if you let me, I will be more than happy to spend every second that I can to show you. Will you?"

"Yes. Yes, Rick - I will have you! I love you so much."

"Good. Now let's go home."

He picked her up again and Maya's squeals of happiness ricocheted throughout her old apartment.