Page 135 of Second Chance with the Single Dad Goalie

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For a beat, we just look at each other. So much unsaid, so much history tangled between us.

Then, she sighs. “I was wrong.”

I blink. “What?”

Her gaze softens. “I was wrong about how I handled everything. About how I treated you. I let my fears control me. And for that, I’m sorry.”

Something inside me breaks - splinters into something warm, something aching.

I swallow. “I…, Mom, I was angry too. And I said things…”

“I deserved it,” she interrupts gently. “But the one thing I never stopped wanting was the best for you. And I see it now, Whitney. I see you now.”

I press my lips together, fighting back tears.

Then, for the first time in a long time, I opened up to her.

I tell her how happy I’ve been. How reconnecting with Blake, with the twins, has made my world brighter. How, despite everything, I know this is where I’m meant to be.

She listens.

Really listens.

And when I finish, she reaches out, taking my hand in hers.

"Then follow your heart, sweetheart. Even if it means risking everything."

“I love you, mom.”

“I love you too, my angel. You really are my angel. Never forget that.”

****

When I step back inside, my eyes instantly find Blake.

He’s standing near the dance floor, looking effortlessly handsome, his sleeves rolled up slightly, his tie a little loosened. His gaze catches mine, and without hesitation, he holds out a hand.

I take it.

"Dance with me?"

He pulls me into him, his arm wrapping around my waist as we move to the soft melody playing.

“You okay?” He murmurs.

I nod. “Better than okay.”

His lips curve. “Yeah?”

"Yeah."

I lean in, pressing my forehead to his, finally embracing everything - us, our love, our future.

And when he kisses me, slow and deep, I melt into him completely, knowing - finally - that I am exactly where I’m supposed to be.

Chapter twenty-eight

Blake

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