More certain.
A phone buzz interrupts the moment.
Gabriel groans.
I check the screen.
"Mason," I say.
"Let me guess," Gabriel says. "Burger report."
I read the message.
"He says Maddie wants ice cream," I say. "And he’ll be dropping her off in about twenty minutes."
Gabriel exhales, half amused.
"Ice cream after burgers," he says. "That kid knows how to live."
"She gets it from her father," I say.
He bumps his shoulder lightly against mine.
"Smart kid," he says.
We lean against the kitchen counter together.
Waiting.
Breathing.
The quiet feels comfortable now.
Not awkward.
Not uncertain.
Just peaceful.
I study the man beside me.
He’s leaning against the counter like this is the most normal night in the world.
And maybe it finally is.
Because somewhere between the carefully negotiated marriage agreement and an amazing elementary school Career Day…
I fell in love with my husband.
Chapter twenty-two
Epilogue- Gabriel
Three Months Later…
Saturday mornings used to be quiet.
Coffee. Maybe a run. Maybe the gym.
