Marissa: I love you too.
I couldn’t wait to see him, to kiss him.
Marissa: I’ve never felt like this. You make me happy and feel safe.
Scott: I'm amazed and honored you feel that way.
Scott: What was it you wanted to talk about?
Ugh. I couldn’t bring it up now. It would ruin the magical moment. And I wanted to bask in it.
Marissa: I’ll tell you later. I just want to enjoy this feeling, but I think we need to talk . . . about future expectations. But later.
Scott: Since you’re awake, can I come see you?
Marissa: See or kiss?
Scott: Both.
It was magic. It had to be. I didn’t want to ruin my chance at this. I texted Faith.
Marissa: Who was that counselor friend you recommended to me? I think I’m ready to face my past a bit.
Faith: Marissa, that’s amazing. I’m proud of you. I’ll send over her contact card and let her know to take the best care of you!
She sent several heart emojis.
My future was looking bright.
Chapter Twenty-Eight
MARISSA
I flungopen the door and saw the most gorgeous man holding flowers and smiling at me. I flung my arms around Scott, almost knocking him over. He chuckled and handed Nan the flowers and wrapped his arms around me. He took me to the couch and pulled me onto his lap.
“I missed you.” I nestled my face into his neck. “And I love you.”
“I missed you too.” He kissed my lips. “I love you too. I'm excited for you to meet my family today.”
It had been several days since I heard Scott say he loved me for the first time, but it still felt like a fairy tale. Me. This gorgeous, amazing man loved me! Faith’s counselor friend Sarah had already reached out, and we met over the phone. It was a little intimidating, but I knew Faith loved me and trusted her, so that helped.
“Alright, you two lovebirds. Are you gonna help me load these pies, or are you going to make me do it by myself?” Nan hollered from the kitchen.
I laughed and hopped off Scott’s lap, grabbing a pumpkin pie. I was floating. I was done running. I was ready to live.
“Are you sure you don’t want to come, Nan?” Scott asked Nan.
“Nah. I’m going to spend the day with Bert.” She shooed us away.
The drive was full of songs and discussions of our best Thanksgiving meals and memories. I was nervous to meet his family, but he kept reassuring me I had nothing to worry about.
We pulled up to a beautiful brick house full of history and charm. The white picket fence, bright potted flowers, and the swing on the large porch made me feel like I was looking at a painting. This house had the feeling of a home.
Scott held the pan of pies, and I looped my arm through his. Taking long breaths, I tried to still my racing heart.
Scott reached the front door and pulled it open. “Hey everyone,” he smiled, “I know you’re dying to meet my girlfriend . . .” Scott set the pies on an entry table.
I giggled at his huge grin. Following his announcement, I heard steps rushing towards us.
