Page 52 of Worship Him

By the time I pull into my driveway, I've managed to regain full control of myself. The house looms before me, suddenly feeling too big, too empty.

Inside, I head straight for my home office. If I'm going to wait, I might as well be productive. I fire up my laptop, determined to lose myself in work until I hear something—anything—about Destiny and Avery.

The clock on my desk ticks away, each second an eternity. But I resist the urge to check my phone every five minutes. I've given my orders. Now, I just have to trust my people to do their jobs.

And hope that wherever Destiny is, whatever she's doing, she hasn't forgotten that Avery is my daughter too.

20

DESTINY

Iopen the door, my heart swelling with anticipation as my parents' faces light up at the sight of Avery nestled in my arms. Mom's hands fly to her mouth, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"Oh, Destiny," she breathes, reaching out to touch Avery's chubby cheek. "She's absolutely perfect."

I hug each of them for several seconds, taking in their smells and loving touch. My heart feels…safe. It's the first time in a while that my smile is truly genuine.

Dad clears his throat, clearly trying to maintain his composure. "Can I hold her?"

"Of course," I say, carefully transferring Avery to his waiting arms. "Watch her head."

As soon as Avery's in his embrace, Dad's tough exterior melts away. He coos softly, rocking her gently. "Hey there, little one. I'm your grandpa."

Mom hovers close, her fingers tracing Avery's tiny hands. "Look at those beautiful brown eyes," she marvels. "Just like her mama's." Her eyes are wide with wonder and happiness.

I can't help but smile, watching my parents fall head over heels for my daughter. It's a moment I've dreamed of, yet feared might never happen.

"She's got quite the grip," Dad chuckles as Avery wraps her fingers around his pinky.

"Takes after her grandpa," Mom teases, earning a playful glare from Dad.

I lead them to the living room, where they settle on the couch, still completely enamored with Avery. Mom looks up at me, her eyes shining.

"Honey, she's incredible. How are you managing?" Her voice is soft, colored with motherly care.

I shrug, trying to keep my voice light. "One day at a time. It's not always easy, but she's worth every sleepless night."

Dad nods, his gaze still fixed on Avery. It’s like he can’t take his eyes off her. "You're doing a great job, sweetheart. We're so proud of you."

Their words warm my heart, easing some of the tension I've been carrying.

For a moment, I can forget about the complications with Adam, the divorce proceeding, and just bask in this simple joy of family.

A few hours later, I sink into the couch, cradling a mug of steaming coffee as Mom regales me with the latest family drama. The familiar cadence of her voice washes over me, soothing in its normalcy.

"You won't believe what your Aunt Sheila did at the last book club meeting," Mom says, leaning forward conspiratorially.

Dad rolls his eyes. "Here we go again."

I can't help but laugh. "Spill it, Mom. What'd she do this time?"

"Well," Mom starts, her eyes sparkling with mischief, "she showed up wearing the exact same dress as Linda. You know how those two can't stand each other."

"Oh no," I groan, already picturing the chaos.

"Oh yes," Mom nods emphatically. "It was like watching two peacocks trying to out-strut each other. Your aunt kept 'accidentally' spilling red wine on Linda's dress."

Dad chuckles, bouncing Avery gently on his knee. "Sounds like a real catfight."

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