I’m done living with the fear of Jensen and me not working out. He proved to me last night that he sees me in a way no one ever has, in the way only he ever has.
Maybe we won’t work out, or maybe we’ll fail, but I know that I’d rather be by his side with my heart on my sleeve than to hide in the shadows. We deserve a happily ever after, too, and we’re finding it in each other’s arms.
Jensen was kind of off this morning, and I know why; Carly’s birthday is approaching, which is bringing up old memories andfeelings. While we need to feel those moments and remember her, I want to do something for Jensen to help ease the ache.
I pass a billboard, one I’ve looked at a thousand times nearing his place, but never truly looked at. It’s the perfect place to go for us.
When I pull into the parking garage, I kill the engine, pull out my phone, and immediately buy two passes for this afternoon. I’m off today, but I work tomorrow, and I don’t want to be out of the house too late.
A confirmation email appears on the top of my screen, and I grin with pride. He’s going to love this, and it’ll be the perfect honor for the best friend I lost and the sister he grieves.
CHAPTER 24
JENSEN
Lainey’son her way up right now, and I don’t think I’ll ever get used to it because my heart is racing like I haven’t seen her in days.
The second the elevator opens, and she steps through, my stomach flips, and my heart leaps into my throat. She’s so goddamn beautiful, and I’m the luckiest guy in the entire world.
She smiles when she notices me staring, her eyes lighting up as she walks over to me sitting on the couch. When she plops down into my lap, I wrap my arms around her and breathe her in, feeling peace settle within.
“How are my two babies doing?” I ask, kissing her cheek.
A blush takes over her cheeks. “We’re doing good.”
Squeezing her tighter, I rock side to side, my heart exploding in my chest.
“This is all I need,” I murmur, adjusting her in my lap so her weight is primarily on my right leg.
“Oh, really? Just me in your lap?”
“And our baby in your stomach,” I add.
It doesn’t matter whose DNA that baby has; it’s mine.
Lainey’s eyes gloss over, as if she doesn’t believe my commitment.
“You know I’m not going anywhere, right? I’ll be beside you through anything.”
Her eyes flick up to mine at my words.
Slowly, she nods. “I know.”
“Good.” I kiss her temple. “How was your girls’ date with Morgan?”
“So good.” She smiles big. A switch flips within her, and she wiggles in my lap. “Guess what.”
“What?” I chuckle at the surge of excitement vibrating through her.
“I have a surprise for you. We’re going somewhere at three this afternoon. Please tell me you didn’t make any last-minute plans,” she pleads, her hands together.
“Even if I did, I’d cancel them. There’s no way I’m crushing the cuteness on your face.” I boop her nose. “Do I get to know the secret place?”
She smiles maniacally. “Nope.” She pops theP.
Adjusting my hands, I attack her, tickling her sides right in her weak spots. She explodes into a fit of giggles, writhing in my lap.
“You. Are. Such. A. Brat,” I tease her, finally granting her reprieve. “What do I need to wear?”
