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I think about the woman I was when I drove into Big Woods with everything I owned stuffed into an old Corolla. I thought I needed a purpose. Someone to take care of, someone who needed me.

Turns out I was looking for something else entirely. A place to belong. People to love. People who love me back.

A family.

I found all of it. I just had to marry a stranger first.

Maverick pulls back.

“What are you smiling about?”

“You.”

“Why?”

I kiss the corner of his mouth.

“My big Santa.”

He groans.

I laugh.

And then my big, grumpy husband kisses me until I’m not laughing anymore.

***