Page 128 of Awakened Desires

Rory’s eyes look a little watery. I hold his stare, my heart swelling with every passing second. I’m so lucky to have him in my life.

After a few minutes, I turn onto my side and give Aidan my finger. He clutches it tightly and waggles it back and forth. “He’s amazing.”

Rory mirrors my position. “He is.” He puts the rattle on the bed. “I think he’s stolen as much of my heart as you have.” He looks into my eyes.

My heart squeezes tight. “Really?”

It shouldn’t be surprising, as it was only an hour ago that Rory suggested the three of us could be a family, but it’s still good to hear. His conviction makes me warm and fuzzy inside, and I know, without any doubt, that he will be there for me and Aidan. I’ll be there for him too. Whatever he needs, whenever he needs it.

“Aye. I love you both.”

We lean toward each other and kiss. Aidan burbles, making us laugh and stare at him instead of each other.

I clear my throat. “I don’t think I’ll be able to return to Dublin to pack up my flat. I can’t take Aidan with me. His birth’s not registered yet, and even then, I’d have to apply for a passport before I could take him with me.”

“What will you do?”

I take my phone out of my pocket. “Call my parents. Ask for help.”

Rory gestures to the door. “Do you want me to go?”

“No. I’d like you to stay. Please.”

“Whatever you need.”

I put my phone down and stroke his cheek. There are words I want to say to him, but I’m not ready yet. I hope he understands. “Thanks. I’m going to tell them about us too.”

“Are you ready for that?”

“As ready as I was to tell Niamh. As I said, you mean the world to me. I don’t want to pretend we’re nothing but friends.”

Rory turns his face and kisses my palm. I stroke his face for a few moments longer before shaking myself and retrieving my phone. I call Mam and wait with bated breath for her to answer.

“Callan. How are you?”

“I’m good, Mam. How are you and Dad?”

“Fine. How are Niamh and the baby?”

“Aidan. We called him Aidan.”

“That’s a lovely name.” Her voice bubbles with repressed joy.

I get it. She wants to be a grandma but didn’t expect it to happen like this.

“Is he okay?”

“Yes. He’s feeding well and putting on weight.”

“And Niamh?”

“She’s struggling to adjust to being a mam.”

Mam clucks. “That’s a shame. I’m glad she’s got you there to support her.”

“Mam, I need to ask a favour.”

“Anything.”