Page 89 of When Love And Destiny Collide

"I'm glad we were able to pull you away for a few days," Laila says. "The mural you painted in the twins' room is incredible."

"Thank you," Lily replies with a shy smile. "It was a lot of fun."

"You’ve got quite the talent," Sam adds, clearly impressed. "It's really something."

"So, you've seen it?" I ask, curious. "Does that mean you know what they’re having?"

"I do," Sam chuckles, "but I’ve been sworn to secrecy."

"We needed help moving the furniture," Laila explains, leaning over to kiss Sam.

"You two seem really happy," I observe, warmth in my voice.

"We are!" Laila beams. "I married my best friend. There’s no one else I’d rather spend time with."

Sam smiles, his hand covering hers with a quiet intimacy that speaks volumes.

"I know the feeling," I say softly, my gaze drifting toward Lily, unable to resist the pull of her presence. "I know exactly what you mean."

Laila raises an eyebrow, her playful grin teasing. "And what about you? Mr. Shay David, author extraordinaire?"

"You heard," I reply, suddenly aware of everyone’s attention on me.

"It's all Mom and Dad could talk about," Laila says. "They're so proud of you."

"His last book turned into a big hit," Lily adds, her voice soft yet full of pride as our eyes meet.

"We’ve got quite a few copies in the children's area at the hospital," Laila grins, her words expressing admiration.

"Have you started writing the next one?" Sam asks, leaning in with genuine interest.

"No," I say, taking Lily's hand in mine. "With the holidays and our wedding coming up, I've decided to take a year off."

"Good for you!" Laila smiles warmly, glancing between us.

"Well," I begin, changing the subject, "it looks like Davey won’t be home in time, so I say we eat."

"Is Marian always late bringing him back?" Laila asks, her dark eyebrow arching with curiosity.

"Always," I reply, smiling flatly.

"That must get old," Sam comments, his expression sympathetic.

"I just keep reminding myself that she’s leaving this week," I say, feeling a mix of relief and guilt for wanting her gone.

"Is Mateo still in town?" Laila asks, brightening. "He left us a wonderful thank-you basket with chocolates, dried fruit, and nuts. We loved it."

"I called to thank him but got his voicemail," Sam says. "I left him a message."

"Noah and I drove him to the airport Monday," Lily says. "He'll be back to spend the holidays with us and to give me away at our wedding." Her radiant smile makes my heart swell.

I know she spoke to Mateo and told him about Marian’s pregnancy and the miscarriage that followed. Lily didn’t share many details with me, and I didn’t press. Some conversations belong between a father and his daughter, and this one felt too personal, too heavy to intrude upon. When we parted ways at the airport, Mateo pulled Lily into a hug, holding her a little longer than usual. Then he turned to me, and we exchanged a firm handshake—an unspoken acknowledgment of where we stand.

***

Tonight, our conversation during dinner flows effortlessly. Sam and Laila are truly meant for each other. Their sharp, brilliant minds seem to challenge and complement one another in ways that add a deep sense of excitement and chemistry to their relationship. It’s clear they’re not just partners—they’re best friends. Watching them together is captivating, like witnessing a dance only they know the steps to.

"How will things work between you and Marian in the long term?" Laila asks, her brow furrowed. "I can't imagine any mom willing to leave her kid just like that."

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