Page 21 of Winning the Quarterback
Devin scoops her up, tossing her gently into the air as she squeals with delight. "Higher, Daddy! Higher!"
"Just like her mother," he says with a wink. "Always pushing for more."
"I have no idea what you're talking about," I reply primly, though the heat in my cheeks betrays me.
As dusk deepens, the festival lights flicker to life in Acorn Circle. Music drifts toward us, accompanied by laughter and the occasional cheer. Devin settles Stella on his lap, her pumpkin costume crinkling as she nestles against his chest, suddenly drowsy.
"We should probably head down there," I say, though I'm reluctant to leave the perfect tableau of my husband and daughter bathed in porch light. "Chief Hawkins will never forgive us if we miss the fireworks."
"We have time." Devin reaches for my hand, threading his fingers through mine. "I'm enjoying the view right here."
In the distance, the first boom of fireworks sounds. Stella stirs, blinking sleepily.
"Pretty lights, baby girl," Devin murmurs, shifting her so she can see the bursts of color above the treeline. Her eyes widen with wonder, tiny finger pointing skyward.
"Boom!" she exclaims, and we both laugh.
As red and gold sparks shower down, Devin turns to me. "Still think love at first sight isn't real, Nora Bell-Turner?"
I pretend to consider this, tapping my chin. "Well, the evidence is compelling. But as a novelist, I need more data points."
"Is that right?" His voice drops lower. "How many more years of research do you need?"
"At least fifty," I say, leaning into him. "Minimum."
"Challenge accepted." He kisses me softly as Stella giggles between us, patting our cheeks with sticky fingers.
