"I missed this," Morello says after a funny story about his work. "Missed you. No one makes me laugh like you do."
My cheeks flush, warmth spreading through me. "I missed this, and missed you too," I pause, then continue softly. "I was scared to want this again. But I'm ready now."
"I'll be here, Alina. Whenever you're ready." His voice is earnest. "We have something special. I still feel it, do you?"
"I do." Joy wells up inside me. We talk late into the night, the connection between us still strong.
With Morello, anything seems possible.
A new beginning, together. For real this time.
I take a deep breath as I end the call with Morello, feeling lighter than I have in weeks.
A smile tugs at my lips as I think about our conversation, the possibilities blooming.
I'm filled with clarity in this moment, watching my daughter work on her art as I reflect on how I felt while talking to Morello.
My quest for happiness doesn't take away from hers—it adds to it.
By embracing my own joy, I become a better mother.
"You're so right with what you said before, Yara. We both deserve to be happy."
I squeeze her hand, my voice thick with emotion.
"And if Morello makes me happy, and seeing you like him so much, then I think we should see where this new beginning takes us."
Yara lets out a cheer, throwing her arms around me. "Finally," she says, rolling her eyes with wisdom far beyond her ears.
I laugh, hugging her back.
As I look forward to what lies ahead with Morello, a sense of peace settles over me.
My joy is just as essential in creating a fulfilling life for us both.
Chapter 44
Morello
My gaze sweeps over Alina's face, memorizing every curve, every freckle, as if I could burn her into my memory.
I reach out a hand, caressing her cheek, our fingers entwining.
"I don't want to ever let you go again, Alina."
My voice is hoarse with emotion, and my eyes are shining.
My heart swells and a lump forms in my throat as I watch her blink back tears.
"Neither do I. But it's not just about us. We have Yara to think about."
"I know." I furrow my brow, my warm, calloused hand stroking her cheek. "And I meant what I said. I want to be there for both of you. I want to be a father figure for her. The one she's never had."
A fat tear slides down Alina's cheek, but she wipes it away. "You do know this won't be easy, right? Yara's been through so much. She's skittish around men, and who can blame her?"
"I'm patient," I reassure her, rubbing her back. "I'll take it as slow as she needs. I'll be there for her when she's ready, and for you too."
My gaze heats, deepening with desire.