“I knew it!” Savannah squeals.
Then she goes on to explain to Ace how she caught me watching Ellyn’s videos while I was babysitting Amelia.
“He tried to close the browser, but I knew I saw it.” Savannah looks back at me. “Aww, that’s so sweet. You watch her YouTube videos.”
Of course, this turns into all of my children bullying me like I’m a damn teenager with his first crush.
“That’s enough out of all of that now,” I thunder. “Yes, alright.” I look around at everyone at the table, my eyes landing on Ellyn last. “Yes, I watch your videos. How can I not? You’re beautiful and light up the damn screen. I want to watch the woman I love on screen all of the time when I’m not with you.”
Ellyn’s lips spread into a shaky smile.
“Love?” Jodi asks.
I turn to her and then look all of my children in the eyes. My heart hammers in my chest as I look at my boys.
I’ve dated off and on over the years, but none of the women were serious enough for me to introduce to my sons. My heart was closed to even the thought of falling in love again.
The only person they’ve known me with has been their mother.
“Yes, I’m in love with this woman beside me. I love her. Very much. Enough to have her wear my favorite hat.”
Savannah gasps, covering her mouth.
And my last name.I barely keep the words from coming out, as I realize the truth myself.
“Oh my God,” Lena says. “This is beautiful enough to write a song about.”
While all of my daughters-in-law shriek in happiness, not one of my boys has said anything.
They’re adults with teenagers of their own. There’s no need for me to mention that Ellyn is not a replacement for their mother. Nor do I need their approval.
But I would like to know I have their support.
Finally, it’s Micah that cracks first.
“It’s about damn time,” he states, a wide smile forming on his face.
“I wondered when it would happen,” Ace says, grinning as well.
“Are you sure you can put up with this grouchy motherfu?—”
“Gabe!” Lena elbows her husband.
“I mean, it’s nice to finally meet you,” Gabriel says to Ellyn.
Ellyn dabs at her eyes with the tissue Lena hands her.
“It’s nice to meet you as well,” she says after pulling herself together. “All of you.”
Tugging her into me, I kiss her cheek and whisper in her ear that I love her.
“Pre-ttee!” Amelia blurts out, making everyone laugh.
CHAPTER 28
Ellyn
“I can’t believe it’s over,” I groan from the passenger seat of Joel’s truck.
