Zillow.
A listing.
I squint at the picture and feel my knees go a little weak.
It’s the house.
My dream house.
The one I drive past all the time on the edge of Verona with the wraparound porch, the garden boxes, and the big, sunny kitchen I’ve always fantasized about baking in.
“What the—what is this?”I ask, breathless.
“It’s ours,” he says simply.“Got the keys this morning.”
My jaw drops.
He steps closer, his voice low and husky.
“So, you about ready to make an honest man of me?”
I squeal.
Actually squeal.
And then I throw myself into his arms.
Lucky for me, Theo catches me like he was built for it.
Strong arms around my waist, spinning me in a circle as a few eighth graders groan and pretend to gag in the corner.
We dance there—beneath paper hearts and strobe lights, surrounded by shy preteens and tired teachers—and I swear the world melts away.
Yeah, it smells like gym socks and fruit punch.
But this?
This is the best Valentine’s Day I’ve ever had.
And I already know every one after this is only going to get better.
As long as he’s there.
And we’re home.
Together.
Epilogue 2: Kai
I can’t fucking believe my brother roped me into working security at a middle school Valentine’s dance.
A Catholic Middle School.Valentine’s.Dance.
FML.
That’s three strikes already—and I’m not even in the damn gym yet.
I swear, if another kid tries to sneak a vape or spike the punch with something they found in their dad’s liquor cabinet, I’m walking.
