I offered her a grateful smile, but guilt gnawed at me. I wished I could tell them—about Ryder, about the stolen moments, about how he made me feel like the most beautiful woman in the world.
But secrets had become part of our love story.
And for now, I had to keep it that way.
By the time I arrived atRiver Heights Elementary,the cool morning air had faded into a crisp, sunny afternoon. Teaching had always been my passion, but since my confidence had grown, I noticed a change in how I carried myself in the classroom.
My students adored me—especially the way I made lessons fun.
During science class, one of my third graders, Emily, tugged on my sleeve.
"Ms. December, do you have a boyfriend?"
I blinked, startled. "What?"
"Miss Parker does,"Emily declared."I heard her talking about him. And you're really pretty, so you should have one too."
I chuckled, smoothing down Emily's braids. "Well, thank you, sweetheart. But not having a boyfriend doesn't mean someone isn't happy, okay?"
Emily thought about it."But do you have one?"
I hesitated before laughing. "Alright, back to science. Who can tell me why leaves change color?"
As the class erupted into answers, I shook my head, amusement dancing in my eyes.
If only Emily knew.
After a long day at work, I let out a breath as I unlocked my apartment door, expecting the usual quiet. But the moment I stepped inside, the scent of garlic and rosemary filled the air.
My heart skipped.
There he was—Ryder—standing at my stove, his broad back to me, stirring something in a pan. A soft candle flickered on the dining table, next to two plates already set out.
He turned, smiling that easy, breathtaking smile.
"Happy eight months, December."
I melted.
He walked toward me, kissed me softly, and just like that, all my nerves disappeared.
And maybe it was the warmth in the room, the candlelight flickering on the table, or just the simple fact that I knew this was love—real, undeniable love—but I looked at him and said it.
"I love you."
He stilled.
For a heartbeat, I thought maybe he hadn't heard me. Then, slowly, he smiled.
And kissed my forehead.
"You're adorable."
My stomach dropped.
My breath caught in my throat.
That wasnotwhat I had expected.
