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“Now, do we have time for an episode of that Santa show while we wait for the laundry to get done?” Knox asked Addy.
“We do.”
“Addy, why don’t you get that ready while I help your mom finish the dishes?”
Addy took off for the living room, and Knox said, “Before you say you don’t need my help, just save your breath and accept it.”
“You’re spoiling me, but I appreciate your help,” I said softly as we worked together to empty the washer and place the clean dishes into the cupboards.
“That’s the idea.”
I shook my head.
“What’s wrong?”
“I don’t want to think about the negatives, but what if we don’t work out? What if…” I get used to this treatment and it doesn’t last?
“Let’s focus on what’s working. I’m happy, and if you’re not, you let me know. I don’t see any pitfalls in our relationship. Things are good right now. Let’s not invite any trouble. Think you can do that?”
I’d vowed to do just that a few minutes ago. “I can try.”
“That’s all I ask. I’m here for you and that little girl in there. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you. The way I see it, I’m busy with the farm this time of the year, and if I can help here and there, then I’m going to.”
“Thank you,” was all I could manage. My throat was thick with emotion.
Since I got pregnant with Addy, I’d felt alone. I had my family to rely on, which was more than a lot of other single parents, but I longed for a partner who’d make my needs a priority.
“You’re not alone anymore. You’ve got me.” He closed the dishwasher and pulled me into his arms. He held me tight as if he were willing me to believe him.
My hands curled around his neck, and I looked up at him in wonder, my chest pressed against his. Everything about him and this situation felt so good. If I let go and believed in him and his actions, then how much farther would I fall for him?
I couldn’t help but be cautious, but I wondered how much it was hindering any progress or forward momentum in our relationship.
“You might not believe me today, but I hope to show you every day how important you are to me and what I’m willing to do for you and Addy.”
“I don’t know what to say.” I was worried I’d always be fearful when it came to trusting people.
He kissed me softly. “Say you’re in this with me.”
“I’m in this with you.” My heart tumbled in my chest.
“Then that’s all that matters. I’ll be here for you.”
It was a trite statement, but combined with his touch and the sincerity in his tone, I believed him.
“Are you ready to watch the movie? Can I hit play?” Addy called from the other room.
Knox smiled mischievously. “We’ll be right in.”
Then he kissed me. It was deep and passionate, yet full of promises. I wanted to hold on to each one and put them in a jar in my room. I wanted to watch them grow and expand and become bigger than either one of us.
I was falling more for him each day. He didn’t make it easy to protect my heart. He was lowering the walls around it, leaving it open and vulnerable.
I worried I’d get hurt. But I worried more that Addy would. But I trusted him in this moment to take care of us. To keep the promises he’d made.
He rested his forehead against mine. “I fall more for you each day.”
“I was thinking the same thing.”
