Page 82 of Come to Me

She gave Patrick a quick kiss. He mouthed “I love you.” She was walking on clouds as she carried the turkey out and helped her mother with all the Thanksgiving fixings.

She sat at the table, glancing down at the other end where Tate sat next to Patrick. The young boy, once angry and withdrawn, now beamed with a newfound liveliness. Micki watched as Patrick leaned in, speaking softly to Tate, his expression open and attentive.

Tate's eyes widened, and a delighted grin spread across his face. Micki’s heart swelled as she witnessed the bond that had formed between the two. She wondered if someday she and Patrick would have a son. He’d be a wonderful father.

“First a prayer,” her father announced at the head of the table. Once the prayer was complete, he said, “It’s time for each of us to share what we’re grateful for. Me? I’m grateful for all of you.”

“He took my answer,” Logan joked, eliciting laughs. “I’m grateful that Tate is happy.” Tate grinned, showing another missing tooth.

“Well, I am taking your father’s answer, because it’s true. All of you are a blessing in my life,” Lori said.

“I’m thankful for Uncle Patrick,” Tate chimed in.

“I second that,” Micki said, holding up her wine glass to salute him.

“What about you, Uncle Patrick?” Tate prodded.

Patrick’s gaze homed in on Micki. “I'm thankful for all of you.”

“Boo. That’s already been said,” Logan laughed.

“I’m thankful for you welcoming into your family, your home, and your hearts.”

“Now he’s getting sappy.”

“Shut up, Logan.” Micki gave him an annoyed glare.

“Don’t say shut up,” her mother chastised.

“I’m especially grateful for Michaela.”

“Gag—”

Micki shot Logan another glare.

Patrick stood and walked over to her. Everyone’s brows furrowed wondering what he was doing, including Micki. He lowered onto one knee, and Micki’s heart leapt into her throat.

“Oh my,” her mother said.

“What’s happening?” Tate asked.

“You’re the bright star in the dark sky, Michaela. I want to spend the rest of my days with you. Will you marry me?” He opened a small box with a star-shaped diamond ring.

Overcome with emotion, Micki nodded fervently, her voice catching in her throat. "Yes, oh my God, yes!" He slipped the ring on her finger, then pulled her up for a kiss.

“They’re kissing!” Tate laughed.

“Yes, they are. Can we eat now?” Logan asked.

“They kiss all the time,” Tate rolled his eyes.

Micki’s cheeks flushed with heat, but she didn’t care.

Lori rose from her chair, embracing Micki and Patrick. Joe extended his hand to Patrick. “Welcome to the family, my boy.”

“Thank you.” Patrick’s gaze returned to her, and he winked.

She lifted up on her toes and whispered. “Can you read my vibe.”

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