Somewhere behind me, Clover squeals. I think she’s the most excited about us being together. The little girl who’s had so much love, she doesn’t have to fear it.
Paige breaks away first, pressing her forehead into mine. “I love you so much. I can’t believe I ever went this long without it.”
I hug her close. “It doesn’t matter how long it took. We’re here now, and we’re not looking back.”
“Never going back,” she agrees. “Instead we’re going forward—together.”
Forever.
At some point during our conversation, Austin slipped his skates back on, moving around the ice with his daughter. And I can’t help but feel like I’m getting a glimpse into our future. With more time spent together, with family and friends, laughing with each other, loving one another.
I kiss her again, not caring if her brother sees I’m slipping her a little tongue. I’m tasting the future, and it’s the best gift a man could ever ask for.
