Page 102 of Your Second Chance
38
ollie
“Thank you for picking a place close to the house. I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to travel far.”
I gripped her hand, brushing my thumb gently over her knuckles. My heart raced, but I kept my expression neutral, hoping she still had no idea what was about to happen.
The warm summer air wrapped around us as we walked hand in hand, the sky painted in hues of orange and pink. I led her down the familiar cobblestone street toward the pub. She chatted softly, oblivious to the nerves simmering under my skin.
The pub came into view, its windows glowing in the evening light. My mum, dad, and Will were already inside, overseeing the final touches and ensuring everything ran smoothly, just as we’d agreed. Aunt Mae had arrived earlier, and I’d settled her into her hotel with her boyfriend. Luna should be here and would be bringing Scarlette. It was all a part of the plan.
I’d envisioned this night long before I’d even worked up the courage to tell Nova I loved her. Every time I saw her with Scarlette or caught her laughing with Luna, the image of this moment solidified in my mind. The pub, the people who mattered most, the warmth of a summer evening—it all felt right.
As we reached the door, I hesitated for a moment, squeezing her hand. She looked up at me, her eyes curious but trusting.
“Come on,” I said with a soft smile, pushing open the door.
The pub was the same on the inside, nothing changed, but I waved to the bartender who smiled at me.
“Everyone’s in the garden.”
Nova furrowed her brow, but I grabbed her hands and pushed her through the crowd.
Outside, the space was transformed. Tables were set with small bouquets of scarlet flowers, flickering candles adding a touch of warmth. Familiar faces filled the room—Iris, her old boss, standing near the back, chatting with one of the photographers she’d insisted on bringing.
Nova’s eyes widened as she took it all in. “What is this?”
“A little something I put together. I figured you’d want all your favorite people in the room to meet Scarlette.”
Luna popped from the back with Aunt Mae, who was already holding a sound-asleep Scarlette.
“Stop.” Nova’s voice trembled. “Y-you did this?”
I nodded, but she was already running toward Aunt Mae, wrapping her arms tightly around her.
Mum came to my side, slipping an arm around my waist. “You ready to make that woman your wife?”
“I was ready the day I met her.”
“You’re a good man, Oll,” she said with a smile.
Dad patted my shoulder as he joined us. “You’ll do right by her. We know it.”
Mum handed me a small box, and I slid it into my back pocket. I looked back at Nova, her laughter mixing with tears as she hugged Mae. My family, my future—everything I ever wanted—was right here.
Luna sauntered over, nudging me playfully, with Will trailing behind her, their fingers intertwined. I raised a brow, glancing at their hands.
“When did this happen?” I eyed the two of them.
“I convinced her to try monogamy.” Will smirked.
Luna rolled her eyes but squeezed his hand. “Temporary experiment. Don’t get too excited,” she said teasingly, though the sparkle in her eyes told a different story.
I shook my head, chuckling. “I give it six months before you have matching tattoos.”
Will grinned, shrugging. “Wouldn’t be the worst idea.”
Luna smacked his arm lightly, but neither of them let go of the other.
