Chapter Forty Nine

Julia

After another three dances and two songs, Nina finally let Josh have a break. While they have been busy Riley and I have been in the kitchen getting some snacks together ready to watch a Christmas Eve film before bed. Riley told me that it's something that he did growing up, a Christmas Eve tradition and that he'd like to carry it on with Nina and I love the idea. "That girl has some energy!" Josh beams as he comes to stand by the breakfast bar, sweat dripping down his forehead. Riley laughs as he passes him a cold bottled water before coming to a stop next to me.

"You bring it out in her." He smiles at me clearly loving that he has that effect on her then proceeds to drink half of the water in one go."She is such a great little girl, you should be proud Julia. You have done an incredible job raising her. Hell, I'm already proud to be her Uncle." His words warm my heart and have me reaching for him and hugging him, something that isn't my usual mo but I can't help it.

It's be