I stand and stretch. I feel the easy pull of muscles that have grown used to long forest walks, axe-splitting firewood under strict Daddy supervision, and nights tangled in quilts with the man who loves every inch of me exactly as I am.
Kaleb scoops me up—bridal style this time—carries me down the hall like I’m weightless. The tub is deep, fragrant with the cedarwood bath salts I love.
Daddy sets me on the edge, peels off my sweater, my leggings, my briefs. He kisses every new bit of skin he uncovers.
When we’re both bare, he steps in first, then helps me settle between his legs. My back to his chest. His arms wrap around me. Water laps gentle against our skin.
I sigh—long, content. Lean my head back on his shoulder.
“I love this life,” I whisper.
“And I love you in it,” Daddy murmurs against my temple.
Outside, the forest is quiet. Inside, the cabin is warm. Two dogs snoring in the living room. A finished draft waiting for morning. A man who calls me his Forever—and means it.
Everything is wonderful.
And the best part? It’s only the beginning.