Page 24 of Puppy Love

We were both panting, catching our breaths. I pulled out then lifted her off the desk, placing her on my lap as I sat down on my leather office chair. I held her in my arms, gazing into her eyes.

“I love you, Cece,” I professed.

“I love you, too, Leo.” She flashed her bright smile, then placed a chaste kiss on my lips.

“Let’s get ready for our dinner reservations, baby.” I stood up, carrying her in my arms to my bedroom, hoping that she’ll be surprised when we get to her party.

“Surprise!”the crowd of Cecilia’s family and friends yelled out as we stepped into the restaurant.

I looked down at my gorgeous girlfriend, who had her hands over her mouth in shock. Cecilia tipped her head back, her eyes filled with tears.

“You did this for me?” she asked.

“Of course, beautiful. Happy birthday,” I told her, kissing the top of her head.

We went to greet our guests as lots of laughter and chatter filled the room. I scanned around, frowning that Michael wasn’t here. I quickly forced a smile, not wanting anyone to catch my disappointment.

As we waited for our dinner to be served, the room got quiet and all eyes were at the entrance of the private room. Cecilia and I turned around, eyes widening. Michael was here.

“Dad!” Cecilia got up and ran toward Michael with me following behind her.

She wrapped her arms around him, crying into his chest.

“I missed you, Dad,” she sobbed.

“I missed you, too, Cece.” Michael tightened his embrace, kissing her forehead. “Happy birthday, sweetheart.”

“I’m so happy you’re here,” she said softly into his chest.

Michael’s gaze met mine, giving a small smile. He released the hug with his daughter then approached me, giving me an embrace.

“Thanks for coming, brother. We’re so happy you’re here,” I said lowly.

“I wouldn’t miss it,” Michael said.

Releasing the hug, Michael looked between Cecilia and I.

“Could I talk to you both privately for a minute?” he asked.

Cecilia and I nodded our heads, and followed Michael to the far corner of the room away from our guests.

“I’m sorry that I haven’t returned your calls and texts over the last couple months,” Michael started. “It’s still going to take me some time to get used to the idea of you two together, but you’re both consenting adults and could do whatever you want.”

“I’m sorry, Dad, for how you found out. We were going to tell you,” Cecilia said.

“I can see how much you love and care for one another, so I’m not going to get in your way. You both mean a lot to me, and I miss having you both around.” I rarely saw how vulnerable Michael can be, but he truly does care for us.

“I won’t hurt Cece ever. I love her,” I confessed.

“I know you won’t, brother. If you do, I’ll kill you,” Michael said, his voice darkened with the last three words.

I tipped my head, acknowledging what he said, our gaze not breaking. I knew he was serious, but so was I. I would never do anything to hurt Cecilia. She means everything to me.

We talked a bit more, then joined the rest of our guests at the table and continued to celebrate the love of my life. Now that Cecilia’s father was here, our lives felt more complete with our loved ones surrounding us. The next time will be our wedding day. When I feel Michael has completely accepted my relationship with his daughter, I’ll ask him for his permission to marry Cecilia.

I swore that I wouldn’t marry anyone else after the divorce left a bitter taste in my mouth, but love found me again. I’m never going to let Cecilia go. She is my world and I wouldn’t know what to do without her in my life.