Liam reaches into the small drawer in the table beside the couch and pulls out the lube we left last time we were here. He works me open, staring into my eyes as he does it. I moan when he slides one finger in, then two, preparing me with practiced care.
“Yes, baby,” he whispers. “Relax for me.”
When I’m loose, he cups my ass and lifts slightly, then guides me down onto his cock with steady hands, making my breath stutter.
“That’s it,” he purrs and licks my neck. “Take me in.”
I open fully around him and we both groan. He fills me perfectly.
He moves with long, deep thrusts, not hurried, not rough. Each one erasing fear, unraveling worry, reminding me why I’ve belonged to him since I was twenty. His mouth moves along my neck, down my shoulder. His hands stroke my back.
“You’re safe. I love you.”
I cling to him as he wraps his hand around my aching cock and jacks me in smooth, firm pulls. Pleasure builds fast. My breath breaks into small sounds I can’t hide.
“You’re not facin’ tomorrow alone. We’re goin’ together. You and me and Avonna. And our girls,” he promises.
I gasp when he twists his hand over my crown.
“Liam…”
He kisses the corner of my mouth. “Come forme.”
I shudder and spill over his fist, body shaking. He thrusts deeper and erupts inside me.
After, he wraps his arms around me. Flutters soft kisses along my jaw, thumb stroking the back of my neck.
The apology rises before I can stop it. “I’m sorry for hidin’ you. For hidin’ us. I let my fear get between us for so long.”
“Linus…” His arms surround me instantly.
“I love you so much.” My voice shakes but I keep going. “I love you more than I ever said. Havin’ you back. Both you and Avonna. It’s the life I dreamed about for years and never expected to be my reality.”
He brushes his thumb over my cheek. “You’re both my dream too.”
I breathe in, shaky and relieved.
Held. Loved. Home.
Liam lifts my chin. “We’ll tell them tomorrow. Not with fear. With truth.”
For the first time since landing in Dublin, I believe him.
Mum opens the door before we knock, warmth blooming across her face.
“There’s my girl.” She tugs Avonna into a careful hug, hands brushing the curve of her belly. “You’re blooming. Let me look at you.”
Avonna smiles, one hand on her back. She moves a little slower, glows a little brighter. Mum always adored her. I hope nothing changes once we come clean.
Mum turns to me next. “You look thin.”
“Stop.” I kiss her cheek and hand her the bouquet of flowers we brought her. “I eat plenty.”
Da appears from the hallway with a soft grunt of welcome. “Welcome home.”
“Good to be back.” He hugs me roughly before looking behind me.
Liam stands patiently.
