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Brazen

It’s moving day!

We’re moving Noah into my home. She doesn’t have much to bring, but she’s been stalling at her old place all morning. I think it’s over having to say good-bye to Madison and Benson. The three of them have been dicking around for the better part of two hours, and I’ve happily watched, entertained.

“You both know you’re welcome into our home anytime you’d like.”

Noah dances on her toes when I call the place ours.

“Thanks.” Benson’s response is edged with nervousness, and he doesn’t make eye contact with me.

“We know, Brazen!” Madison adds.

“You ready to go, babe?” I address my question to Noah.

“Yeah. I’m just going to say good-bye.” There is sadness in her eyes.

She hugs Benson, practically knocking him over, and he doesn’t flinch, not even a little.

“I’m going to miss you, Benny.” Her chin rests on his shoulder.

“I’m going to miss you more. It’ll be lonely here without you.” He squeezes her back.

“Call me lots. Come over whenever. Don’t be a stranger.” She releases him from the bear hug, sniffles, and swipes at her eyes.

“Promise,” he tells her.

I quietly make my way out to give the trio some privacy, but Madison follows me outside on the porch. I sigh, feeling content and happy about this move.

“Take care of that girl. She’s special,” she tells me.

“You don’t have to tell me. I couldn’t be more aware of how lucky I am.”

“Good to know.” Madison gives me a warm smile. “It’s great to see you happy, especially considering … well, I miss my friend, too.” Sunday meant a lot to both of us. “I always knew my sister never deserved you when you two were together,” she adds.

Before I can respond, Noah exits the front door and joins us on the porch. Without speaking a word to one another, Noah pulls Madison in for an embrace. I keep walking out to my car and let them have a moment alone.

Even from the distance, I can easily read her body language and know that she’s expressing her gratitude for her time spent here. Even though there is a tinge of sadness in her eyes, her smile fills her face as she walks toward my car. I hope she always looks at me that way. Over the center console, I take her hand after she gets in the car.

“Ready to go home?” I love saying that.

“Take me home.” And, apparently, she loves saying it, too.

With the car loaded up with the few bags accompanying Noah, we take off. Noah’s place is with me now. When we get home, I make sure I can see Noah’s face when she enters.

She squeals when she sees the giant banner that reads, Welcome home, Noah!

Dozens of pink balloons fill the entryway. The bags I’m carrying fall to the floor as Noah jumps into my arms.

“This is for me?” She kisses me before I can answer.

“Well, no one else is moving in today.”

She gently bites down on my lip for teasing. My hands grip her ass, pulling her impossibly closer to me.

“I’m so ecstatic you’re here, baby. I just wanted to make sure you knew that.”

“Thanks for being you,” she tells me.

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