Page 84 of The Reality of Wanting Him

“I couldn’t read it that day,” I admit, my voice cracking. “Not after everything.”

Blake nods in understanding.

“But I want to read it tonight. With just you. No cameras, no waiting for whenever we actually say ‘I do.’ Today feels just as special, way more than whatever ceremony the show would have planned.”

I let out a slow breath, unfolding the letter with trembling hands. Her familiar handwriting stares back at me, and I blink rapidly, forcing back the tears already threatening to fall.

I take a deep breath, then begin to read.

My sweet boy,

If you’re reading this, it means you’ve found the kind of love your dad and I always dreamed you’d have. A love that makes you smile every day, that makes life bigger, richer, and fuller. The kind of love that makes you better.

Your dad and I had that. And my greatest wish for you is that you do too.

Love is a choice, Liam. Every single day, you will choose each other. And if you’ve chosen this person, then I already love them too.

Dance, laugh, celebrate, and holdeach other close through it all. And know that I am celebrating with you. I’m so proud of you.

I love you, always.

Mom

I exhale shakily, wiping at my face as Blake squeezes my hand so tight, it almost hurts. He doesn’t say anything though, just lets me feel every emotion her letter has inspired.

After a few moments, I take a deep breath and lift my glass.

“To Mom,” I say.

Blake lifts his glass to meet mine. “To Mom.”

The whiskey burns as it goes down, but when Blake leans in to press a soft, comforting kiss to my lips, I swear I can feel her here with us, smiling.

And I know with absolute certainty—he’s the love I’ve always dreamed of finding.

THE END

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