Meghan’s expression falters. “What are you doing?” she asks, her voice edged with unease.
Hannah’s footsteps thunder down the stairs. “What, Daddy?” she says, breathless, her eyes bright and curious.
“Go to your room and pack a bag,” I say, smiling gently. “You’re going to stay with Mommy for a few days.”
“Yay!” she squeals, jumping up and down, her arms flailing with pure excitement. “Can I take Teddy?”
“Of course,” I say. “Hurry, now.”
Hannah bolts back up the stairs.
Meghan stares at me, stunned. “Jackson!”
I turn to her, folding my arms. “You want to play games with custody? Fine. Let’s see how long you last being a full-time parent. But don’t ever use our daughter as a weapon again.”
I don’t know if she’s stunned into silence or giving me the silent treatment, but without another word, she walks to the door and opens it.
Then she turns, eyes full of disdain. “You owe me a pearl necklace. I’ll wait for Hannah in the car.”
And just like that, she’s gone.
***
Half an hour later, just as I’m done getting dressed, the doorbell rings again. This time, I know it’s Elle.
She’s calm, but I can tell she’s been crying.
I pull her into my arms, and she sinks into me, her warmth wrapping around me with peace and longing all at once. Her scent is familiar, but instead of stirring anxiety or uncertainty, it fills me with comfort and a desire unlike anything I’ve ever known.
This is love—not the superficial, short-lived, and misguided attraction I felt for Meghan.
“Have you talked to Meghan?” she asks, without letting go.
“She came by,” I say, pulling back to look into her eyes.
“Where’s Hannah?” she asks, glancing around the room.
“She’s going to spend a few days with Meghan,” I say. “It’ll be good for her, especially so close to Christmas. I just hope Meghan makes the most of it, and gives Hannah what she wants most: her time.”
"That’s good," Elle whispers. She takes a deep breath and rests her head on my chest, letting me hold her close.
Time stands still. And when she looks up at me, I claim her mouth with mine.
She kisses me back with the same intensity and passion I feel inside. Our lips move together until we’re both breathless.
Without breaking the kiss, we move to the couch, where we continue sharing a kiss that proves there's true love growing between us.
There’s no uncertainty, no doubt, no hesitation—just love and need.
I end the kiss, and she grunts in protest. I smile, pressing my forehead to hers.
“I love you, Elle.”
“I love you, too.”
I smile and make a mental note to replace this couch as soon as possible.
“Did you take Beth home?” I ask, tucking a loose strand behind her ear.
