AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Daisy nodded. “Maya and Nina are going to be worse than we are with hugging him.”
Hunter nodded and raised his glass. “To unexpected gifts, new traditions, and a Christmas full of love. May our holidays always be this lively.”
"To family," my mom added.
“To family,” we all announced.
“Oh, and Amy,” Daisy started, turning her attention to the poor, unsuspecting nanny. “We’d love to have you over on Christmas Eve. We’re having a little get-together, and since Nick and Brielle will be out of town, we thought it would be perfect.”
Amy lit up and nodded. “That sounds amazing. Thank you.”
“Absolutely.” Daisy grinned. “We look forward to it.”
The dining room filled with the low murmur of voices, the sound of glasses clanking, and laughter as we stuffed our bellies and passed Tate around.
Despite the unexpected turns and surprises, this Christmas season felt truly magical.
By the end of the evening, it had been decided that Tate would stay at my house, and I’d call Amy if I needed anything.
As the caterers, my family, and Amy, Brielle, and Nick shuffled into the crisp winter night, the house fell into a peaceful rhythm, which was a complete contrast to the lively commotion earlier.
There we were, just the two of us and Tate. Daisy rested her head on my shoulder as I stared at my son, peacefully asleep in his crib. The baby camera and monitor had been set up to alert me of his every move, but I was still apprehensive to leave.
But I knew he would be fine. I hugged Daisy and brought her closer as I watched my son sleep. I’d been waiting for what felt like forever for this, and I couldn’t thank Brielle enough for going on her honeymoon soon.
"Quite a night, huh?" I whispered.
She nodded, giving me a hug as I watched Daisy, who’d joined Tate to become the center of my universe. She linked her hands with mine as we walked down the hall to the living room.
Daisy curled up on the couch, with her fabulous smile glowing at me and her hazel eyes reflecting the flickering lights of the fireplace. I sat down next to her and let out an exhausted sigh.
She let out a soft laugh, turning to face me after my sigh. "Understatement of the year. I never imagined I'd be spending the holidays like this. But, you know, in a strangely beautiful way."
Her hand linked with mine, fingers intertwining naturally. "I can't believe how well you handled everything. The baby, your ex, the family drama… You're amazing, you know that?"
“Having you here makes it all seem manageable. More than that, it feels right." My eyes locked on hers, and I felt that familiar pull to hold Daisy in my arms.
“You always know what to say.” Daisy’s eyes softened, and she scooted closer. "I've been thinking about our future a lot lately. All the holiday cheer and tonight’s chaos made me realize how much I want this.”
I nodded, knowing exactly what she meant.
“I want us. I want a life together. It's scary and unpredictable, but when I look at you, I feel like we can handle anything."
“I know it's been a whirlwind, but with you, it feels like I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be." I shook my head. “And Tate feels like the center.”
She nodded happily as Purrlock rested in front of the fireplace. She hadn’t moved much since Tate showed up, but I think that was her way of adjusting.
“I love you, Hunter Knox,” she whispered, crawling onto my lap.
“I love you too.”
I moved my hand to her head and pulled her lips down to mine, kissing her hard.
She let out a little whimper of happiness, and I knew tonight was only the beginning.
Chapter Twenty-Seven
Daisy
