I went for a run on the treadmill I set up in the basement, then lifted weights. I usually enjoyed a quiet morning, relishing my ability to work out whenever I wanted. But now that I'd gotten a glimpse of what it would be like to be at Angela and Ayla's, I wanted to be there with them.
In the future, I could make breakfast, then bring Angela coffee while we watched Ayla open presents. I wanted that vision of my future.
I decided to bring dessert to their house after dinner at my parents. Determined to make that happen, I sent Mom a text advising her of my plans. She agreed to set aside an array of desserts. She even asked if I wanted to invite them for dinner. But I was selfish. I wanted them to myself today.
It was Christmas, the most important day of the year. The one day you spent with the important people in your life.
I wanted Angela and Ayla to be those people. As long as I could prove I was a reliable guy and that I'd treat her and her daughter like they were mine. It would take time, but I was patient.
I'd wait her out, and when all her walls crumbled, one by one, I'd be there for her.
I ran a hand through my hair, looking at myself in the mirror. I was getting way ahead of myself. I shouldn't be thinking like this after one kiss.
When Ford started messing around with Natasha again, I told him that I wanted to settle down eventually, and this was it. I wanted Angela.
I headed over to my parents' house in the late morning. In the kitchen, Mom said, "You didn't want to invite Angela and Ayla over?
"They have their own traditions. I didn't want to intrude." At least not this year. Maybe if we dated long-term, that would change. We'd spend the morning together, then come over to my parents' house.
Would Mom be doting on Ayla right now? Including her in her preparations for the meal? Would Ayla like having a grandmother figure who lived closer and paid attention to her.
"It's too bad her family is so far away. Not that it would stop me."
"You're lucky. We all live here then," I said.
"I couldn't imagine not seeing my grandchild, especially Ayla. She's precious."
My heart contracted at her words. Ayla would be so loved by my family. "You'll make an amazing grandmother one day."
She wagged a wooden spoon at me. "Sooner rather than later, I hope."
I made a noncommittal noise.
"You like this woman, don't you?"
"She's slow to trust. I don't know much about her parents or her ex, but I have a feeling they have something to do with it."
"You're a sweet boy. I know you'll do right by her."
I drew myself to my full height. "I'm not exactly a boy anymore."
Mom chuckled. "I always thought you had the biggest heart of all my boys. You were so sensitive. Crying during kids' movies and asking me thoughtful questions after the other kids had gone to bed. I should have told you to go to bed because it was so late. But it was our time together."
"I remember that."
"Dad always said I should be tougher with you. But we had a special relationship."
"I think so too." It felt good to hear it. We appreciated certain things about each other, and it was nice to hear that she thought I was special.
"That's what makes me think Angela is good for you."
"You're not worried because she's a single mom?"
Mom paused and looked at me. "Haven't you been listening to me? I think of anyone, she's perfect for you. You have a heart big enough for both of them."
"Thanks, Mom." It felt good having her approval.
"And I won't say anything to your siblings, but I think they already suspect."
