Page 100 of Moonlit Kisses

I stand, too, and we all head into the office where Max proudly shows off my work.

“This is fantastic, Molly,” Martin states without taking his eyes from my work.

Noah turns to me. “You know. I wasn’t sure about having another big sister, because one is enough already. But I think I’m gonna like having you around, Molly.”

We all chuckle lightheartedly, but my heart swells. I was worried about meeting Noah and how we’d get along, but I needn’t have. He’s a great kid. Even though I promised myself I wouldn’t compare Noah and Ethan, they seem very similar in disposition.

As I walk Martin and Noah out to say goodbye, I decide to throw caution to the wind and invite them to Max’s birthday barbecue tomorrow. Emma phoned me last week to ask if I had any plans for Max’s birthday, which came as a surprise since I wasn’t aware his birthday was coming up. I’ve agreed to marry the man and I didn’t even know when his birthday was. I felt like a terrible fiancée.

I’ve carried on the ruse that I don’t know it’s his birthday tomorrow, but I’ve planned a barbecue at a park down by the lake to celebrate with his family. Martin and Noah readily agree to come, promising that Beth and Holly will come along too. I can’t wait to see the surprise on Max’s face.

I spin on my heel and head back into the workshop, locking the door behind me, feeling lighter than I have in a long time. Max has cleaned up and taken off his overalls while I was outside.

He draws me in close, wrapping his arms around my lower back, resting his hands on my butt, locking us together. “How are you feeling, Dimples?”

I pause for a moment to assess how I’m feeling. Peering up into Max’s caring eyes, which are almost brown today, I answer honestly. “I’m not gonna lie. I was nervous. He’s the age that Ethan never got to be, and I wasn’t sure if I’d be okay … emotionally. You know?” I draw in a sharp breath as Max nods. “I didn’t want to be a sobbing mess in front of him and make things awkward.”

Max presses his forehead to mine, kissing the tip of my nose. “You’ve lost so much and yet you’re still thinking about everyone else. You’re incredible. You know that, right?”

The heat that rises to my cheeks is embarrassing. “Not really. I didn’t want to start out with grief between us. He’s just a kid and I’m a stranger. I’m glad we could connect with my drawings, though. I think having something we can do together will make it easier for us to get to know each other.”

“He was impressed with your talent. But I feel sorry for the kid. He now has to deal with two sisters. I might have to give him some tips.” I swat playfully at Max’s arm, which he attempts to dodge, but I’m too quick and make contact with his muscular bicep. “C’mon, Dimples. Let’s get outta here.”

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