********* A FEW YEARS LATER *********** I run my hand over my bulging stomach, savoring the warmth of the afternoon sun as it filters through the living room window. I am close now. The doctor says that any day this week I will give birth to a boy. Nearby, Lukas and Alinn teach Andy how to play a new board game, while Liam hovers close by and places snacks and drinks on the table. “Are you okay? Anything you need?” Liam asks. I grin at him. “I need my husband to sit beside me and hold my hand.” Liam’s face softens, and he nods, quickly making his way over to the couch beside me. As he sits down, he takes my hand in his, his fingers lacing through mine. I lean into him, my head resting on his shoulder. He wraps an arm around me, holding me close and kissing my forehead. This time, I am not afraid. Because now, I feel safe and loved, surrounded by the people who mean the most to me. We will move forward, because we know now, that we are unstoppable together. ********* ANOTHER FEW
I chop vegetables for dinner as I note the instructions Lukas jotted down for our dinner. Liam enters the room, wraps his arms around my waist, and playfully nuzzles my neck. “Guess who?” he whispers, his breath tickling my skin. “Could it be... my handsome husband?” I tease. I turn in his embrace, meeting his lips with a sweet kiss before returning to my task. “Any updates on our lovebirds?” Liam asks, referring to Lukas and Alinn. “Actually, they went on a date yesterday evening,” I respond. “I think things are getting more serious between them.” “Good for them,” Liam says sincerely. He leans against the counter, watching me. “Remember how nervous we were when we first started dating?” “Of course,” I laugh. “We are so nervous that we shared a kiss during that same day and even made love when the evening came.” He laughs. “But look at us now. I want to ravish you every time I lay my eyes on you.” I caress his cheeks. “And we’ll do that once we are done with food and shower,” I
It’s already late in the afternoon when the four of us, Liam, Lukas, Andy and me, start the stroll through the bustling market in Morocco. All the vibrant colors, the tantalizing scents and cacophony of voices are overwhelming. Andy seems to enjoy everything, and she has become very curious. Once, she even asks what the two locals are doing. I explain to her that they are haggling over prices. And every time she sees some exotic wares, she will clap her hands in delight. Something that never fails to put a grin on Lukas’ face. “Mom! Stunning!” Andy exclaims as she points to a beautifully embroidered scarf. Liam chuckles. “It is. You can take what you like, Andy.” Andy squeals and pulls Lukas with her into the shop. On the other hand, Liam takes one scarf and drapes the fabric around my neck. He gazes at my face and whispers, “It really is stunning.” I blush, especially when last night was very hot—too passionate, in fact, that I wasn’t able to get up until it was close to lunch.
The lush garden surrounds an elegant white gazebo. There are cascading floral arrangements that are draped gracefully over the lattices. Not to mention the sweet scent in the warm air. And beneath the canopy of flowers, I stand with Liam. We are gazing into each other’s eyes as our family and friends gather around us. Everyone is dressed at their finest, chattering excitedly amongst themselves while sipping champagne and nibbling on mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres. My mother is wiping away a tear as she looks at us. My father is beaming proudly at her side. With all our relatives around us, this is a far cry from when we had our first wedding. “Ready?” Liam asks beside me, his voice full of tender reassurance. I nod, my eyes shining with happiness and love. “Friends and family,” the officiant begins. “We are gathered here today to celebrate the love and commitment of Liam and Cassie. Today, they choose to renew their vows, solidifying their bond and reaffirming their devotion to on
Suddenly, a waiter approaches us and clears his throat. Liam and I look at him. There is an awkward smile on his face. “Apologies for disturbing you, ma’am, sir, but your food is ready. Should I... ahm, send it here? Or should I pack it up or something?” he asks. Given the time to breathe, I reach for my wineglass and take a slow, deliberate sip. As the rich liquid warms my throat, I resolve to face my emotions head-on. “We are going to continue our date night here,” Liam answers while staring hard at me. The waiter gestures for the others to come closer. They set down plates and bowls in front of the table while Liam fixes himself and sits across me. When the waiters leave, Liam reaches for my hand again. “You see, Cassie. You might have forgotten, but this is the anniversary of when we met at that police station. The first time you kissed me.” “Oh.” “You also think that you were not pretty enough back then. That you are undeserving of love.” I purse my lips again. I glance at
I arrive at the elegant restaurant alone, my heart heavy with the weight of agreeing to Scarlet’s request. Even the soft glow of the candlelight that dances against the polished silverware and crystal glasses on the tables do not improve my mood. The atmosphere is intimate, and it could have been a perfect night with Liam. I take a deep breath, inhaling the rich aroma of seared scallops and garlic butter that fill the air. “Reservation for two under Mr. Chapman?” I ask the hostess who has come to assist me. “Of course,” the hostess replies, leading me to a secluded table by the window. “Your server will be with you shortly.” “Thank you,” I murmur, taking my seat while noting the crisp, white linen napkin and the glasses on the table. I glance around the room. Couples are sharing tender smiles and stealing kisses from each other. The sight only deepens the ache in my chest, reminding me of my earlier decision. “Good evening, ma’am,” a friendly server greets me as he approaches the