Page 80 of Sexting the Don

They are the most beautiful sight I've ever seen. Suddenly, the room seems to brighten, as if they've brought their own light with them into the world.

"We did good, huh?" I whisper to Mandy, overwhelmed with emotion.

She looks up at me, her eyes shining with tears of joy. "We did great," she replies, a tired but radiant smile on her lips.

We decide on their names then and there amid the soft beeps of machines and the murmurs of awe from everyone in the room.

"Connor and Callie," I say, feeling a surge of pride as I speak their names out loud for the first time.

I gently lift Callie from Mandy's arms, cradling her against my chest. She's so tiny, so perfect. My little girl. The reality of being a father, of holding my daughter, hits me with overwhelming force. I'm a dad—a protector, a guide, a constant in these little lives.

Natalie and Florence crowd around, cooing and fussing over the babies with an enthusiasm that makes me chuckle. They take turns holding Connor, their expressions of pure joy.

Mandy and I share a kiss, a soft, lingering connection that seals this moment as ours. "I love you," I tell her, my voice steady and sure.

"I love you too," she replies, her gaze flicking between our children and me.

It's a perfect moment, surrounded by love and new life. As I hold Callie and watch Mandy with Connor, I know these are just the first of many perfect moments to come. This is our beginning, a new chapter where every challenge feels surmountable, every joymagnified.

Epilogue II

Mandy

Three years later

"Great work today, everyone!" I call out, my voice carrying over the fading echo of the music. "Incredible energy!"

From the back, a familiar voice pipes up, one of the newer faces who happens to be a world-famous singer.

"Mandy, that playlist was killer! How do you always manage to find the perfect tracks?"

I flash a grin, feeling a swell of pride. "Trade secret! But let's just say it’s all about matching the beat to the burn. Keeps everyone on their toes, you know?”

Another regular client, drenched in sweat but beaming, chimes in. "Honestly, these HIIT sessions have been a game-changer for me. Thanks for pushing us so hard!"

"That’s what we’re here for," I reply, my eyes sweeping over the group. "Remember, it’s not just about keeping up; it’s about setting your own pace and then challenging it. Whether it’s yourfirst class or your fiftieth, you’re here to surpass yourself, not your neighbor."

As the group begins to disperse, I lean against the front desk, watching with satisfaction as everyone packs up. Some exchange high-fives, others check their fitness trackers, comparing stats and setting goals for the next session.

I pull my phone from the side pocket of my gym bag and immediately smile at a notification on the screen. It’s a picture from Enzo; he and the twins are at our favorite ice cream spot in Malibu, their faces joyous and messy with dribbles of chocolate and vanilla. It's these little moments that get me every time. I quickly tap the heart reaction and type back,Looks delicious! I’ll pick up some dinner on the way home. Love you guys.

Tucking my phone away, I take a deep breath and glance at myself in the wall-length mirror. There’s a slight sheen of sweat on my face, evidence of a good session.

As I’m admiring how far I’ve come, a flutter of nervous excitement runs through me. Although I’ve just gotten my body back, I have another little surprise growing.

This secret has been burning a hole in my brain, and it’s almost time to let Enzo in on it. Adding another baby to our brood is both exhilarating and daunting. Knowing Enzo, though, his reaction will be nothing short of elation.

I head to the showers, my thoughts racing ahead to dinner and the conversation that awaits. After a quick rinse, I’ll be off to meet Nat for coffee before heading home with takeout.

Stepping out of my studio, the fresh air hits me with the salty tang of the sea, mingled with the earthy scent of street vendors lining the colorful, bustling avenues of Venice Beach. Thevibrant street art, the crashing of the ocean in the distance, and the eclectic mix of street performers and skateboarders never fail to amaze me that this is where I get to work every day.

As I stroll down the street, I adjust my sunglasses and soak in the unique vibe that only Venice can offer. The sun is high and bright, casting a shimmer on the palm tree-lined streets. It's just a short walk, but every step is a reminder of how far I've come—from a freelance trainer to a studio owner—in one of LA’s coolest locations.

I spot Natalie seated outside the cafe, her signature wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses making her look every bit the incognito movie star. She's waving energetically as I approach, her smile as dazzling as the Golden Globe Award she just won.

"Look at you, still glowing from that win! When's the Oscar party?" I tease, giving her a tight hug.

Natalie laughs, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Oh, stop it! I'm still enjoying riding this wave. But yeah, an Oscar would look nice on my shelf. Got to keep dreaming big, right?"

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