Page 33 of When Love And Destiny Collide

“You’re infatuated. It’s a crush. You’re young, naive, innocent, inexperienced—”

“Please, don’t hold back, Dad,” I snap, my tone sharp and accusatory.

“You didn’t answer my question," he counters. "Does he know how you feel?”

“We both know,” I say with conviction. “Even if neither of us has said the words, we both feel them.”

"Have you told him about—? Mija, I don't want you to get your hopes up and end up with a broken heart."

There it is—like a dagger, sharp and sudden. I knew it was only a matter of time before my father brought up the one mistake that nearly destroyed me. The one that cost me everything and left me in pieces, struggling to put myself back together.

“Dad, I will tell him when the time is right.”

“But, Lily—"

“All I ask is that you trust me," I say, interrupting his train of thought. "Let me tell him when I'm ready."

“Of course I trust you,” he says, his tone softening. "I just want you to be happy."

There’s a heavy pause before he speaks again. “I’m coming to see you next week,” he says, the promise hanging in the air like a storm cloud, more ominous than reassuring.

After I hang up the phone, I pour myself another cup of tea, realizing not even the whole pot could soothe the storm of emotions raging inside me.

***

"I'm taking Davey shopping for school clothes," Noah says during breakfast. "Would you like to go with us?"

"I have a few things to do at home," I say, keeping my tone light. "You two go ahead."

Davey is still distant, but at least he's answering my questions and didn’t refuse to eat this morning. I glance at Noah, wishing I could read his mind and uncover what he and his ex-wife talked about last night. When he catches my look, a slow smile spreads across his lips, then he winks, effortlessly sparking a flutter deep in my chest that makes me smile back.

"Will you be back before lunch, or are you planning to eat out?"

"We can pick up a pizza on our way home," Noah replies. Then, turning to Davey, he adds, "Go put your shoes on, Buddy, so we can get going."

Davey hops off his chair and dashes up the stairs, leaving Noah and me alone in the quiet kitchen. Noah glances toward the stairs, then stands and steps closer, his eyes locking with mine as he reaches for my hand. When I stand, he pulls me into him, his lips meeting mine in a sweet, gentle kiss that leaves me craving more.

"Kiss me again," I whisper, my gaze locked with his.

“With pleasure,” he murmurs, smiling before capturing my lips once more. But as soon as we hear Davey's footsteps on the stairs, Noah’s lips reluctantly part from mine, and he gently releases me from his warm embrace.

I smile and begin clearing the table.

After they head out, I load the dishwasher and go upstairs to tackle the mess in Davey's playroom. The housekeeper Noah hired a few weeks ago comes in three times a week, but Davey's playroom is the one spot that demands daily attention. I love spending time in this room, surrounded by the joyful chaos of childhood—every corner brimming with happiness and discovery.

I let sadness grip me, just for a moment, as I face the possibility that I might never be a mom. But then I force it deep down, locking it away in the darkest recess of my mind.

Half an hour later, just as I’m about to head out the back door, the doorbell rings. I open it and find a delivery guy holding a stunning bouquet of red roses and white lilies.

“Lily Cruz?” he asks.

"Yes," I smile taking the flowers from him, my heart fluttering as I carry them inside. Setting them gently on the kitchen counter, I reach for the small card attached.

Lily, I had a wonderful time last night. I can’t wait to ask you out again. I’m crazy about you. Noah

"I love you, Noah," I whisper, letting the words linger in the air like the delicate fragrance of these beautiful flowers.

Chapter 9

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