Page 45 of Snowed in with the Grump

I fix my gaze on Ava. “Do you mean it?”

She meets my eyes unwaveringly. “Every word. With all my heart.”

When tears fill her eyes, the depth of meaning behind this moment washes over me. She wants me wholly and completely. And I want her just the same.

I take a steadying breath before asking, “Once the cabin renovations finish in a few months, would you move in with me and make this our home?”

Ava's breath catches at the enormity of what I'm asking. She squeezes my hand, a single tear slipping down her cheek.

“I'd love that,” she whispers.

I gather her close, emotion clogging my throat. This remarkable woman saw beyond my scars to the man I long to be—and made me believe I could be that man.

She rests her head on my shoulder and I feel the rise and fall with each breath. I imagine her falling asleep and waking beside me—lazy mornings with her wrapped in my arms.

“Have you ever considered pursuing teaching as a full-time career?” I ask.

“I love it but thought it would be a side gig.”

I look at her with eyes full of sincerity and encourage her to consider this alternative path. I can see her mind racing and squeeze her hand.

“With some planning, you could turn your passion into a career. There's a college nearby where you can apply for your credentials.”

“I'll look into the program,” she says after a thoughtful pause. “And I'll search for a part-time job in the area.”

I tighten my grip around her hand, a gentle smile forming on my lips. My eyes crinkle at the corners, radiating warmth and pride.

“Living with me means you'll save money on rent while obtaining your credentials,” I offer sincerely.

“Thank you,” she replies.

It's time to address my own issues.I pause, emotions swelling within.

“I've been putting off dealing with my wartime trauma. I'll find a therapist after the holidays and get the treatment I need.”

Ava's eyes glisten but never break contact with mine. She wraps her arms around me in a tight embrace. Her warmth strengthens my resolve.

“Carter, that's amazing,” she gushes, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. “I am so proud of you for prioritizing your mental health.”

I press my forehead to hers, noses bumping. “Wherever you decide to go, my place is by your side. If you'll still have me.”

Ava pulls back to meet my gaze. “I'm not going anywhere. I’d love to help with the renovations. I'm handy with a hammer.”

I chuckle at her feisty determination. “Nice try. You're banned from anything involving heavy machinery or heights over two feet.”

“Spoilsport,” she says, unable to keep the smile off her face.

“I'm not about to risk losing you to a tragic carpentry accident,” I reply.

“Ever the protector,” she sasses. “Lucky for you, I happen to find that very attractive.”

“I’m a lucky man.”

She nestles into my embrace. For the first time, I understand what it means to feel complete. Like I'm exactly where I'm meant to be.

“I never knew it could be like this. Being with you,” she murmurs.

“It’s the same for me, Ava. I never knew how much I needed this—neededyou—until now.”

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