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Miles and I join my folks and Austin in the kitchen to bring the food to the dining room. As we settle down for dinner, my dad raises his glass for a toast. “To family,” he starts, his voice deep and filled with emotion, “to those we’re born into, and those we choose. Austin, you may have felt like an outsider in some parts of your life, but here, in this home, you’ll always belong.”
Tears sting my eyes as I watch Austin, his face reflecting a mixture of gratitude and lingering sadness.
The room erupts in a chorus of “cheers,” but the significance of my dad’s words hangs in the air. I wonder if the toast made Austin feel better or worse.
I’ll talk to him about it when we’re alone.
Dressed in my comfortable, oversized white sweater that Austin loves so much, I snuggle closer to him on the sofa, cherishing the warmth of his embrace. My parents and Miles sit across from us, sipping on mulled wine. The aroma of spices fill the room. It’s so cozy and comfortable, I’m almost hesitant to bring up the topic at hand.
His sadness from earlier has been replaced by nervous energy as we prepare to broach the subject of my moving into his penthouse.
Mom’s gaze meets mine. “Are you staying here tonight, Shay?”
“Well, now that you mention it…” I start.
Austin gently clears his throat and interrupts. I know it’s important for him to have my parents’ blessing. “Shay and I have been discussing the possibility of her moving into my penthouse. Obviously, we’re adults and don’t need permission, but we wanted to discuss it with you both before making any final decisions.”
“Well, that’s a significant step.” Dad’s eyebrows rise, a flicker of concern flashes in his eyes.
Austin nods, gripping my hand tightly. “I understand, Goran. But Miles and I had a long talk and I’ve taken the time to discuss Shay’s epilepsy journey with her. We created a Seizure Action Plan.”
“You did?” Mom looks surprised. My family has one, but it’s been such a secret since none of us let anyone know about my condition.
“I brought Austin to my appointment with my neurologist. She spent time with us to help Austin identify my potential seizure triggers and the most beneficial response,” I jump in to explain. “Obviously, I knew about things like stress, lack of sleep, or certain stimuli. We also learned episodes might be related to hormonal fluctuations as I approach thirty—which means, if I’m going to have babies, we’re potentially on a shorter timeline.”
“We’ve also enlisted a medical facility familiar with Shay’s condition closer to Seattle,” Austin says. “I’ll text you the emergency contacts. Oh, and I’ve been through basic training on how to assist during a seizure.”
“Babies?” My mom flutters her hand over her heart. “Don’t toy with me, Shay.”
I can’t help but laugh. “We’re fast tracking our relationship a bit.”
“Before we get there, I’ll be asking you a profoundly important question.” Austin points at my dad.
Dad’s stern gaze softens, clearly impressed by Austin’s commitment. “I’m not only fine with this, I’m happy about it. Shay, your well-being is paramount to us. Honestly, this is the first time in a long time I feel relieved, knowing you’ll be in excellent hands.”
“Thank you, Goran. Although, Shay is perfectly capable of taking care of herself. I want to be there for her in every possible way.” Austin cuddles me closer to him.
There’s a brief silence, the soft crackling of the fire filling the void. Miles breaks it with a pointed question, “You’re both confident about this step?”
I nod, drawing a deep breath. “With Austin, I feel safe, loved. Our relationship has grown immensely. We’ve discussed our dreams, our fears, and our hopes for the future. Living together feels like the next step for us.”
Dad raises his wine glass. “To new beginnings and unwavering love. I guess this is your official welcome to the family, Austin.”
We all join in the toast, the sound of clinking glasses is music to my ears.
After dinner, Austin and I steal a quiet moment away from the festivities to sit on the porch, wrapped in blankets against the winter chill. The night sky is clear, stars shimmer brightly.
“I’m sorry about earlier.” Austin kisses my temple. “I didn’t mean to bring a downer to the celebration.”
“No, don’t apologize.” I shake my head. “You should never hide your feelings from me. I seriously want to go tell your mother off.”
He pulls me close, resting his chin atop my head. “I always hoped that, one day, things would change. That they’d see me. Accept me. But I guess some things aren’t meant to be. I’m not going to try anymore, it sucks every fucking time.”
I tilt my head up, and gaze into his eyes. “You know, families come in all forms. It’s not only about blood. It’s about the people who show up for you, who stand by your side no matter what. And I know I said it earlier, but it’s true. My family is your family.”
“Your dad’s toast unquestionably hit me. I’ve never been welcomed like that before.” He brushes his lips against mine. “You can never break up with me now. You’re stuck with me.”
“It’s no hardship. You deserve all the love.” I press a soft kiss to his lips.
