Page 142 of Awakened Desires

“One of our housemates. He’s a lawyer, specialising in families. He’d be able to advise you both on how to move forward.”

“I don’t think that’s necessary,” I say.

Niamh straightens. “I do. I think it’s a good idea. I don’t want you worrying that I’ll change my mind in a week, month, or year and take Aidan away from you.”

“I wouldn’t—"

Niamh arches an eyebrow. “When you came here today, what did you think I would say?”

“That you wanted Aidan back.” My shoulders slump.

“Exactly. I don’t want you being tense and worried every time you drop him off with me. We’ll talk to your housemate, and we’ll make it official. You’ll be the full-time parent. Now and always.”

I lean across the table and touch her hand. “Are you sure this is what you want?”

“Yes. I’ve done nothing but think about it. Make sure Aidan knows I love him.”

“He’ll know,” I promise. “I’ll tell him, and you’ll show him whenever he’s with you. He’ll have us both in his life.”

She nods. “Tell me when and where to meet Beau. I’ll discuss whatever needs to be discussed. Sign whatever needs to be signed.” She looks at Rory. “You take care of my boys, you hear?” Her expression becomes soft. “The three of you make a beautiful family.”

“I—” I’m not sure what to say. “Do you want to hold him?”

She nods and takes him from me. He coos at her happily. Niamh smiles and strokes his nose. He reaches up and catches hold of her finger. I know that grip. It’s vicelike and amazing. She looks more relaxed holding him than ever before. My pulse races. If there was ever going to be a moment when she might change her mind, it’s this.

She glances up. “Don’t worry. I know I’ve made the right decision. He belongs with you, Callan.”

I release the breath I was holding. Tension rolls off me in waves. Rory shuffles his chair closer and puts his arm around my shoulders. I lean into him. Reconnecting with him has changed my life in ways I could never have imagined, all for the better.

“You’re still moving to London, aren’t you?” Niamh asks. “You won’t go back to Dublin?”

“I’m not going back. My home is here, with Rory and Aidan, and close to you.”

Niamh’s lips curl into a fluttering smile.

“My parents are packing my flat up,” I tell her. “They’ll sell everything I don’t need and bring the rest of my stuff over in a week or two.”

She smiles. “I bet they’re looking forward to meeting their grandson.”

“They are. I’m sure they’d like to see you too.”

“I don’t think so.”

“They won’t judge you, Niamh. They’ll understand.”

She looks away.

“Will your family be coming over?” I ask.

Her smile fades, and tears crowd her eyes again. “No.”

“I’m sorry.”

She shrugs. “You can’t choose your family. But I did choose you. You’re an amazing man, Callan. I know things didn’t work out between us, but I’m glad I met you. I’m glad you’ll give Aidan a warm and loving home.”

“Always.”

“And you two…you must be happy you reconnected?”