Page 83 of Hey, Stepbro

As we stand there, basking in the warmth of the sun and the love we share, I feel incredibly grateful for the life I'm living. With Brock by my side, and friends like Waxley to support us, I’ve never been happier.

"Speaking of love," Brock grins, turning to Waxley, "maybe you should talk to Justin. He's been mentioning you a lot lately."

Waxley's cheeks instantly turn pink, and he fumbles with one of the Little Free Library's panels. "Really? I mean, well, maybe I'll do that."

"Trust me, you won't regret it." Brock cuffs Waxley’s shoulder.

Before we can continue our conversation, a commotion near the limousine catches our attention. We all watch in amazement as five baby Dachshund puppies leap out onto the grass, their tiny legs propelling them toward us.

"Are those...?" I gasp, recognizing the familiar faces of the naughty pups from Rainbow Paws, my favorite animal shelter where I volunteer on weekends.

"Surprise!" Brock grins from ear to ear. "I knew you'd love this."

As the puppies swarm around us, yipping excitedly and begging for pets, I laugh at their boundless energy.

Waxley crouches down, scooping up one of the wriggling little furballs and cuddling it close.

"Who knew you had such a soft spot for animals?" I tease, rubbing the ears of another puppy who has claimed my foot as a chew toy.

"Only for the ones that make you smile like that."

My heart swells with appreciation for his thoughtful gesture. "You always know how to make life even more amazing."

I wipe away the tears that spring to my eyes as I scoop up two of the puppies, their tongues eagerly licking at my face. "Brock, how did you even manage this?" I ask between joyful giggles.

"Love makes all things possible, Blakely," he responds, his voice warm and full of affection. He cups my cheek with one hand, while a third puppy wiggles its way into my arms.

"Seriously though, I can't believe you did this for me," I say, feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this incredible man who continues to surprise me in the best ways possible.

"Anything to see that smile on your face."

"Ahem," Waxley clears his throat, grinning as he holds another puppy in his arms. "Don't mind us, just enjoying the show."

"Shut up, Waxley." I playfully sticking my tongue out at him before turning back to Brock.

Brock's laughter rumbles through his chest as he pushes me gently against a nearby tree, the bark rough against my back.

The kiss deepens, and a thrill runs down my spine when he moves his mouth to my ear, licking the sensitive skin there.

A shiver races through me, and I cling to him, still holding the puppies.

"Guys, seriously, save it for later," Waxley chides us, rolling his eyes but smiling at our display of affection. "We've got a Little Free Library to finish installing."

"Fine, fine," I relent, reluctantly pulling away from Brock's intoxicating touch. "But you better be ready for more of this tonight," I whisper to him.

"Count on it." Brock’s voice is husky and full of promise.

I turn back to Waxley. "Reading is," I begin.

"Fundamental," Waxley drawls.

"We’d better… work," Brock jokes.

As we get back to the Little Free Library, I think about how amazing it feels to share these moments with Brock.

I’m looking forward to my secret surprise tomorrow night.

CHAPTER26

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