Page 144 of Awakened Desires

“You could turn it into your workshop and make furniture and children’s toys to sell.”

“I don’t think—”

“I do.” I press my palm to his cheek. “You’re talented, Rory. You shouldn’t let it go to waste. You can start by making a rocking chair. Or maybe a rocking horse for when Aidan is bigger.” I blink and stare at him. “We’re talking about moving in together.”

He laughs. “Have you only just noticed?”

“No, but it’s only just sunk in how monumental that is.”

“Technically, we already live together.”

“I know. But this would be different. It would just be the three of us.” I rub the back of my neck. “It would be a commitment.”

Rory’s eyes search mine. “Is that okay?”

“Yes. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

“What about Aidan?”

I laugh. “You’re both the best things that have ever happened to me.”

“Better.” He puts his hand over mine. “We don’t have to move out right away.”

“I should probably get my business set up first.”

Rory bobs his head from side to side. “Maybe. Maybe not. Your catchment area might change when we move.”

“True.”

“I have savings. I can support us through finding a place of our own and the early days of your business.”

I stroke his cheek. “What about your business?”

“I’ll do you a deal.”

I arch an eyebrow as I wait for him to continue.

“You let me support you and Aidan for now. Then once your business is established, you’ll support the three of us while I set mine up.”

“Making furniture?”

“And children’s toys.” Rory gazes at Aidan. “He can have all my prototype designs.”

“He’ll love that.”

“Do we have a deal?”

I nod. “We do.”

“We could stroll past some estate agents on the way home,” Rory suggests.

I kiss him. “I’d like that.”

“Then let’s go. There’s no time like the present. I’m ready to start the rest of our lives together.”

Warmth buzzes in my chest. “So am I.”

We gather Aidan’s things and manage to get him into the carrier without waking him. We leave the café hand in hand. My heart is a million times lighter than when I walked in. It feels like all the puzzle pieces of my life are finally fitting together perfectly.