Page 124 of A Win-Win Situation

"Why would we do that?"

"Because they’re always so weird around each other," I say, a bit worried about how they’llactuallywork together. I don’t know exactly why they’re awkward, but they just haven’t clicked. Which is weird because Sophie is amazing, and so is Liam. He and Adeline already act like siblings toward each other, so I truly don’t understand why they seem to have issues, but I’m doing my best to fix things.

"Let’s keep it a surprise. That way she can’t run away, and they’ll all be friends soon enough," Lucas says, happy with his plan.

Let’s just hope it works, because I don’t have much patience for any more awkward parties.

As I blow out the candles on my birthday cake, surrounded by the people I love most in this world, I make a silent wish. It's a wish for more years filled with love, laughter, and adventures with Lucas and my people by my side. Our journey together has only just begun, and I can't wait to see where it takes us next.

"What did you wish for?" Adeline asks.

"Another nephew or niece," Liam suggests, his finger stuck in little Antoine’s grip. This time, when Lucas reaches out for me, I don't push him away. Instead, I lean into him when his hand cradles my little bump.

"No need to waste a wish on that," he says with so much pride that it lights up the entire room and makes my heart burst. "We’re actually expecting another baby."

Gasps and cheers erupt from our friends and family, and I can't help but laugh at their reactions. The joy in the room is palpable, and I feel like the luckiest person in the world.

In the midst of the celebration, Lucas leans over and whispers in my ear, "I love you, Leora."

I turn to him, my heart swelling with affection. "I love you too, Lucas."

And in that perfect moment, I know that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.

THE END

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