Page 104 of A Temporary Forever

I’m about to tell her she doesn’t have to do it, even though it’s clear she’s just shy, when Caleb steps forward.

“I’ll join you.” He shrugs, a dare in his eyes.

Mia glances at me, and I nod as if it’s my place to give her the okay. Her face lights up, and she angles toward the makeshift stage area.

The performer, sensing an opportunity, cranks up the volume and steps back, giving them the spotlight. The crowd around us gathers, curious about this unexpected twist.

Caleb stomps his feet awkwardly, his movements stiff and unsure, and I stifle a laugh. Mia grins as she takes the lead. Her body flows to the rhythm with grace and confidence.

Caleb watches her, a proud smile spreading across his face, and then, something incredible happens. He mimics her movements, his initial awkwardness melting away as he lets go of his inhibitions.

The crowd cheers them on, and Mia’s laughter rings out, pure and joyful. She reaches for his hand, and together they spin and twirl, a beautiful, unrestrained duet.

I clap along with the crowd, swelling with affection, watching them. As I stand here, witnessing thisbeautiful scene, my heart opens up, embracing this new, unexpected family.

Caleb’s eyes meet mine for a moment, and I see a spark of something raw and real there—an openness that wasn’t there before. Or one that I didn’t want to see because of its possible meaning.

It’s like the wild, unfiltered joy slowly chips at his defenses. And I know this is about his daughter, but I can’t help but hope. Because there’s no way I could have ever exited this arrangement without hoping for more. As much as I wanted to protect myself.

His gaze locked with mine, we travel into another world. Music and noise fade away as we remain in our own bubble in the middle of the vibrant city. His feet stop, and the hectic energy around us freezes.

Something passes between us that is deeper than the usual heat. Greater than our fears. Truer than our misconceptions.

The performance ends with a flourish, the crowd erupting into applause. Caleb’s gaze breaks away and he joins Mia in taking a bow, their faces flushed and beaming.

Caleb wraps his arms around her in a first spontaneous and sincere display of affection. After a tense beat, Mia snakes her arms around his waist.

I wish I could document this, but it’s their moment and I don’t want to disturb it with my phone. As theyreturn to me, Caleb pulls both of us into a group hug, his laughter echoing in my ears.

Mia giggles as she turns and chats with some of her audience, a woman showing her a phone screen.

“Did you see that?” Caleb asks, breathless and grinning.

“Oh, I saw it all. I knew Mia was talented. But you’ve got some moves.”

He leans in, his lips by my ear. “I’ve got moves, black swan. And you already know some of them.”

An involuntary shiver shudders through me, all my emotions crashing into this moment, and I know beyond a doubt, surrounded by the bustling heart of the city, I belong right here with them.

If only that was reality.

“Are you sure you don’t want us to drive you?” Caleb asks Mia for the tenth time.

We had the best afternoon, but Mia got a text from her mother and announced, rather anxiously, that she needed to go home.

“I’m fine. I’ve taken the subway lots, and it’s faster.” She bounces on the balls of her feet.

“Just please let us know you got home all right.” I give her a hug.

“And if I can do anything to help…” Caleb offers, a veil of awkwardness creeping between them again.

“I will.” She turns and skips down the stairs, but stops halfway. “Thank you for a great day, Dad.”

Caleb squeezes my hand so hard I worry about my bones, but the significance of the moment directs my attention away from the crushing force.

He swallows. “I’m looking forward to the next one already, Mia.”

Seeing this proud man choked up cracks another barrier I created around my heart. We stand there motionless long after Mia disappears underground.

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