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A smile curls his lips, and he steps forward into a brief hug. “We’ve got you.”

29

Noel

Telling Taron I need space is the hardest thing I’ve ever done. Being in his arms was like going home. He might have torn my heart out by the roots seven years ago, but he also planted the seed of forgiveness when he gave me Dove.

Coming back, loving her, being so amazing… It’s all gone a long way to mending the damage done so long ago.

Still, it’s like my brain threw a leash around my chest and pulled it tight. I can feel the restraints binding against my ribcage. He has my name inked on his skin. Tears fill my eyes, and my heart wants to fly… But my mind says not so fast.

Standing in the doorway, I watch him with Dove in the living room. She’s chewing gum, which is new, and she’s making him help her learn the opening dance for Angelina Ballerina.

“It’s my talent for Princess Peach,” she explains like we should have already figured that part out. “Hold out your arm, Daddy.”

Taron is on one knee, and she jumps, switching her feet beneath her like the cartoon mouse. I’m pretty sure this move is called a changement, and it’s pretty basic. Still, Taron is her biggest fan.

“That’s good. Have you taken dance?”

“Nuh-uh.” She shakes her head and does a sissionne, which is basically the same move, going to the side.

The one year of ballet I took in high school has given me that much info.

“What’s happening in here?” Leon walks into the room and flops on the couch. “Dude. She has you doing ballet now?”

I sit on the arm of the chair beside him, watching their progress. “Taron is filling in for Freddie,” I t

ease, referencing Angelina’s dance partner in the books.

“Lift me up, Daddy.” She puts his hands on her little waist, and when he lifts her, she points one leg out. “Grand jeté!”

It’s so cute, I clap and laugh. “That’s good!”

Taron turns her in the air and props her on his shoulder, and they both hold an arm out. Even Leon claps at their silly antics, and I wonder what’s wrong with my stubborn brain. This big, strong, alpha man allowing his little daughter to wrap him around her finger like he does should be enough to heal any wounds.

He puts her down, and she walks over to the small trash in the corner and spits her gum into it.

“Goodness, Dove,” I scold. “From the penthouse to the outhouse! Use a napkin next time. You look like a trucker.”

“I’m Uncle Leon.” She puts her hands on her hips and saunters back to where Taron is now sitting on the couch.

We both look at my younger brother, who’s making a shut up face at my daughter.

“What does that mean?”

“I don’t know what she’s talking about.”

“Are you chewing tobacco again?” Stepping up, I smack his arm. “You want all your teeth to fall out?”

“Woman!” he barks. “Stop abusing me!”

I do a little growl. “Disgusting habit.”

Still, I’m happy. We’re coming so close. I feel sure it’s only a matter of time before I’m able to give Taron everything, no uncertainty or fear.

Dove is curled up asleep in my bed, and I’m putting clothes away in my closet when a tapping on my window makes me jump. I look around the door to see Taron smoldering outside the glass.

Akela doesn’t even lift her head anymore. Crossing the room, I slide it open, and he sits, swinging his legs inside and pulling me between them.