Page 157 of Never You

I’m lucky you know.

I might have lost my parents two years ago, but I’ve gained an entire family. Every single one of Rae’s family members welcomed not just me, but my siblings too, with open arms, giving us a family home we didn’t even know we needed.

Della is best buddies with Nana and Finn seems to have found a soft spot for Lily, because the man can’t say no to the little girl. Our holiday’s are completely filled with the family traditions of the Stafford-Lockheart family and I’ve never felt more at home. If I have ever felt at home before that, that is.

We tried to stay in touch with our parents, but after dad got elected governor there hasn’t been a lot of contact anymore other than a happy birthday every year.

I guess we served their purpose. It’s sad, but it’s true.

“Are you asking for my permission?” Johnny asks with a serious tone.

“No,” I huff, giving him an incredulous glare, “I’m gonna do it anyway. But I’d like your blessing. I know Rae would appreciate it,” I pause, “and to be honest, so would I.”

He holds my gaze with a straight face while I wait patiently.

He calls a good bluff, I know that, because we’ve been playing poker together whenever he’s around, but still a nervous lump forms in the back of my throat when he keeps his mouth shut. Then finally, a lopsided grin appears. “I think my mother will kill me if I tell you no at this point. She loves you.”

“I know,” I say, pleased.

“But yeah.” The features on his face soften. “I couldn’t wish for a better man by her side, asshole.”

He offers me his hand and I eagerly grab it as we smile at each other in agreement and even though I wasn’t going to let him stop me, I’m glad I got this out of the way.

“So when are you going to pop the question?” Johnny gives me a curious glance, then folds his hands together, putting his attention back to the ice.

“I’m not sure yet,” I respond.

My head turns when I hear the sound of the door opening on the right side of the rink. Rae’s blonde hair appears and instantly a flutter goes through my stomach that seems to only be present when she’s in my eyesight.

She smiles when she sees me, then starts walking our way with very pregnant Charlotte following behind her. Charlotte glows, just like she did the first time, and unintentionally my mouth curls because I can’t wait to see that glow on Rae.

I flip my attention to my girl’s golden eyes shining bright, like they are my light in the darkness and my heart jumps when I imagine those eyes on one of our future children.

“Soon,” I add with a content smile. “Real soon.”

THE END.

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