Page 107 of Big Dick Energy

“That's... oddly specific criteria.”

“My son needed someone who wouldn't put up with his nonsense. You clearly don't.”

“I really don't.”

“Perfect.”

My mother had risen from her seat and was making her way around the table. She stopped in front of Dallas, studying him.

“You love my daughter?”

It wasn't a question, but Dallas answered anyway. “More than I knew I was capable of.”

“And you'll take care of her?”

“She doesn't need me to take care of her. She's the most capable person I've ever met.” He paused. “But I'll spend the rest of my life trying to be worthy of her anyway.”

My mother was quiet for a long moment. Then, to my absolute shock, she pulled Dallas into a hug.

“Welcome to the family,” she said, her voice muffled against his chest. “If you hurt her, I know people.”

“You know lawyers.”

“Same thing.”

The tension broke like a fever, and everyone was talking at once—congratulations and questions and Cheyanne demanding to know if she got to be an aunt soon. Austin was shaking Dallas's hand. Delilah was explaining the surgical instruments threat to Richard, who looked impressed.

And in the middle of all of it, Dallas found me. His arms wrapped around me from behind, pulling me back against his chest. His lips brushed my ear, breath warm against my skin.

“We did it.”

“We did it.”

“Your mom hugged me.”

“I know. I think I need to lie down.”

His laugh vibrated through both of us. “Later. Right now, I think we need to toast.”

He was right. Austin was already raising his glass, calling for attention. The room settled, all eyes on us.

“To Dallas and Davina,” Austin said, his grin all sharp edges and genuine affection. “Who have collectively decided that normal dating timelines are for the weak and that sometimes the best decisions are made at 3 AM in Vegas.”

“By Elvis,” Cheyanne added.

“By Elvis,” Austin agreed. “May your marriage be filled with passion, partnership, and significantly less tequila than its origin story.”

“Hear, hear,” echoed around the table.

Glasses clinked. Wine was drunk. And somewhere in the chaos of family and love and the beautiful mess we'd created, Dallas kissed me.

It wasn't for show. Wasn't for the cameras. Was just for us.

CHAPTER 32

SOMEONE LIKE ME

DAVINA