Page 18 of One Night Forever
Amanda fidgets with the hem of her shirt, her eyes darting around the room before settling back on us. "Like I can be myself around him. He makes me laugh, and he listens when I talk about my dreams. It's just easy, you know?" she says with a shrug.
Cherry's expression softens, and she reaches out to squeeze Amanda's hand. "Oh, Mandy, that's wonderful. You deserve someone who sees you for who you are."
Amanda takes a deep breath. "But I'm scared," she admits quietly. "What if it doesn't work out? What if I mess everything up?"
"Hey," I say gently. "That's a risk with any relationship. But from what I've seen, Frankie adores you. And if it doesn't work out, you'll still have us. We're not going anywhere."
Cherry nods emphatically. "Absolutely. We're your friends, we’re here for you no matter what.”
“He’s your step dad, Cherry.”
Cherry grins. “Honey,” she laughs. “I’m married to your dad. I just want you happy and if that’s with Frankie so be it. However, I can’t say the same about your dad. Derek was mighty pissed when he saw the look you two shared on our honeymoon.”
I press my lips together, three months ago we all joined Derek and Cherry for their honeymoon where we all noticed the spark between Frankie and Amanda. It was clear to everyone who watched them interact that there was something between them, but nothing seemed to materialize from it. Until now.
“If you’re happy, honey,” Juni whispers. “Then go for it.”
I can't help but smile at the dreamy look in Amanda's eyes. It's been so long since I've seen her this happy.
"Have you kissed yet?" Cherry asks, wiggling her eyebrows suggestively.
Amanda's eyes widen. "Cherry!"
Cherry feigns innocence. “What, I’m merely curious.”
Amanda buries her face in her hands, but we can all see the smile peeking through her fingers. "Maybe," she mumbles, her voice muffled.
Cherry lets out another squeal, and I can't help but laugh at her enthusiasm. "Oh my God. We need details!"
Amanda peeks out from behind her hands, her eyes sparkling with a mix of embarrassment and excitement. "It was nice," she says softly. "Really nice, actually. We were walking in the park last weekend, and it just sort of happened."
"And?" Cherry prompts, leaning forward eagerly.
Amanda rolls her eyes, but her smile grows wider. "And it was perfect, okay? He was so gentle, and it felt like... like everything just clicked into place."
"So, what happens now?" I ask gently.
Amanda's smile falters slightly, and she bites her lip. "I don't know," she admits. "We haven't really talked about it. I mean, with everything that's happened with Dad and Cherry, and the baby coming, it's complicated, isn't it?"
Cherry reaches out and takes Amanda's hand. "Life is complicated, sweetie. But that doesn't mean you don't deserve happiness. If Frankie makes you happy, then go for it. I promise, it’ll all be worth it in the end.”
“He wants to see me for Christmas,” she whispers. “I’m not sure if I should.”
Cherry’s hand tightens around Mandy’s. “Sweetie, that’s something you need to decide, but no matter what, we’re all supporting you. We love you.”
I can’t lie, I have the best fucking friends in the world. Each and every one of them is supportive and whom I cherish so very dearly. They love Tanner for me and have included him in all the family events that we do.
“Merry Christmas baby,”Tanner whispers as he thrusts into me. I blink through the sleep and smile. God, this man is gorgeous and he’s all mine.
“Merry Christmas, honey.”
I wrap my arms around Tanner's neck, pulling him closer as he moves inside me. I spot the glistening of the ring on my finger against the morning light filters through the curtains. My breath hitches. “Tanner.”
“I’m not asking,” he growls as he thrusts into me, picking up speed. “We’re getting married, baby.” His eyes are dark with desire, but there's a tenderness there too that makes my heart swell.
"I love you," I whisper, running my fingers through his hair.
He smiles, that crooked grin that never fails to make my stomach flutter. "I love you too, baby. So much."
