I look at the romper.I love Oma and Opa.
This is family.
“Of course not. It’s an honor.”
“So I can call you Auntie too?” Mia asks.
I crouch down. “If you want to, I’d love that.”
She hugs me tightly. “Thank you, Auntie Lexy!”
I kiss her head, and when I look up, every Hawthorne is smiling.
Dex’s smile is the biggest.
The sun dips lower, twinkle lights glowing brighter as the band starts playing. Couples drift onto the dance floor.
Dex stands and holds out his hand.
“You promised me all the dances.”
I take it, letting him pull me into his chest. “I did.”
“Did I tell you how beautiful you are today?”
“About a thousand times.” I smile. “But I don’t mind.”
He kisses my hair and leads me out.
The music slows.
His hands settle at my waist, steady, sure.
We move together, slow and unhurried.
His gaze never leaves mine.
Not once.
“You still with me?” he murmurs.
“Always.”
A shift passes through his eyes, deeper now, rougher. His grip tightens slightly before easingagain.
I rest my head against his chest, listening to his heartbeat.
I’m Safe.
His hand moves slowly up my back.
“I’ve never had this before,” he murmurs.
“What?”
“This.” His eyes flicker between mine. “Pure happiness… you.”
My heart stumbles.
