“That’s good, I guess,” Jack murmurs, pulling me close. “At least if he’s consistent, we’ll get more time for the two of us.”
I grin at him. “I know. Though Liam loves the nights you come over too.” Despite my initial hesitation, seeing the way Liam blossoms under Jack’s attention has made me decide that it’s worth having them spend time together, even if it still seems early. We’re all happier with Jack around—including Jack, I think.
He tugs me into his lap, and I lean my head on his shoulder, just enjoying being here with him. Then he clears his throat. “Um, I know it’s a bit early to be talking about the holidays, but I invited my mum here for Christmas. I know your parents are here too. Would you feel okay about all of us doing Christmas dinner together? Or would you be willing to maybe do Christmas Eve with my mum and me and the day with your parents?” He cringes a little. “Or, it hadn’t occurred to me, but do you have Liam for Christmas this year?”
Grinning, I nod. “I do. And I think doing Christmas dinner all together sounds lovely. I look forward to meeting your mom.”
He lets out a contented sigh and tips my head back for a kiss. My own sigh escapes at the feel of his lips on mine. Between the care he shows my son and the way he always makes sure I’m okay, I can see Jack and me lasting for the long term. After the dissolution of my marriage, I wasn’t sure I’d ever think about spending a lifetime with a man again. It was nowhere on my list of priorities.
But then Jack appeared, cutting through all my preconceived notions and ideas of what it means to be in a healthy, loving relationship.
And I couldn’t be happier.
