Page 89 of Second-Rate Superstar

“They might not, but there are two teenagers who will probably be scarred for life.”

“You’re right. Wouldn’t want them to see healthy, loving, respectful relationships in action so they know what to look for as they grow older,” I countered.

Argue with that one, babe.

“Wow, okay.” Dakota huffed out a disbelieving laugh. “You came to play.”

“No.” I kissed her temple. “I came to win.”

Her breathing hitched as those words sank in. But for good measure, I added, “In case you’re wondering, you’re the prize, Firefly.”

That stunned her into silence, and I was more than happy to let her get lost in the thoughts of just how much she meant to me.

Reaching Jaxon’s lakefront house, I grabbed our bags as Dakota went to the other car to help Natalie with the kids. With the freezing temps, the snow from the blizzard that had kept planes grounded for Thanksgiving was still on the ground. It would be a beautifully white Christmas.

Stepping over the threshold, I took in the beauty of my brother and his wife’s summer home decked out for the holidays. I knew for a fact Mom had taken care of decorating the space. She loved being a grandma and was all about recreating the magic of our childhood with Jaxon’s kids. This would be their first Christmas spent in Minnesota, and it was clear she’d gone overboard.

A massive tree was set in the corner of the living room, stretching so tall it nearly brushed the exposed wooden beams of the vaulted ceiling. Lights were already strung up, and boxes of hand-painted ornaments were laid off to the side so the kids could trim the tree themselves. The backdrop through the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the frozen lake was like looking at a holiday card.

Arms looped around my waist from behind. Dakota’s voice was full of awe. “This place is stunning.”

Tugging her in front of me, I reversed our position, placing my chin atop her head. “Not too shabby for a cozy holiday spent with loved ones.” When she snuggled further into my chest, I knew she understood that she counted as one of my loved ones. And I could only pray that I would earn that same designation from her at some point.

Giving her a squeeze, I released my hold, steering her suitcase to the in-law suite on the first floor off the kitchen. “You’re over here.”

Leading the way, I brought her roller bag to rest beside the dresser before giving a mini tour of the suite. “Over here, you have your own bathroom. There are towels in the linen closet. Anything else you need, let me know. I’m sure they’ve got extra of just about everything.”

Eyeing the lone suitcase I’d brought into the room, she asked, “Just me?”

“Yeah. This room is perfect because you have your own space.”

Frowning, a tiny wrinkle formed between her brows. “Where are you staying?”

“Beau is bunking up with Jameson, so I’ll take his room.” I shrugged.

“You don’t have to do that. I don’t want to put anyone out by being here.”

Before she could get too deep into her thoughts, believing she was a burden, I closed the gap between us, cradling her face and demanding her attention. “It’s not a problem. Trust me.”

The last thing I expected in response was for her to step back, hurt crossing her features. “Oh.” Crossing her arms over her middle, Dakota’s voice grew whisper-soft. “Do you—do you not want to stay in here with me?”

“What? Why would you think that?” My hands itched to comfort her, but I didn’t want to make the wrong move and worsen the situation.

She sank onto the bed. “Because you’re displacing a little boy from his bedroom to avoid sleeping in the same bed with me.”

Dropping to a knee before her, I peeled her hands away from where they clutched her waist, taking them in mine. “Of course, I would want to sleep in here with you. But I don’t want you to think there’s an expectation if I do. That’s not why I asked you to come home with me for the holidays. I meant what I said about never letting you go. We have all the time in the world. There’s no need to rush this.”

“Are you sure?” Those sapphire eyes searched mine.

“Positive,” I confirmed. “I’m not going anywhere.”

Giving me a small smile, she nodded. “Okay.”

Squeezing her hands, I stood. “Get settled in. Jaxon’s got baking on the agenda this afternoon before we cozy up with holiday movies.” Walking to the door, I paused. “Oh, and Dakota?”

“Yeah?” She turned to face me.

“When I do take you to bed? I’m never fucking leaving.” With that, I left the room.

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