Page 84 of My Sweetest Obsession

“Shh, enough of that,” Mya gently scolded, yet her own eyes shimmered with unshed tears. “I’m fine, seriously. I’m just happy you’re alive and safe.”

“Ah, man. I can’t handle chicks crying,” Liam murmured. “There are too many feelings.” He shook his head, and I couldn’t help but smile at his familiar antics.

“Don’t be so dramatic, Liam,” I shot back with a hint of sarcasm, though I felt the urge to cry at the sight of him, a manwho had become my best friend since I moved here. I could see he was holding back, his eyes glistening with unshed tears, his chin trembling.

“It’s good to see you,” I said, my heart swelling with gratitude.

He swaggered over, sitting on the edge of the bed. Taking my hand, he raised it to his lips and pressed a soft kiss against it. “I’m so fucking glad you’re back home,” he whispered. “I’m sorry for not being there.”

His admission struck a chord. I knew deep down that none of this was his fault.

He pulled away slightly, a smile breaking through his worry.

“You never did tell me about your date,” I teased, attempting to shift the heavy atmosphere.

He threw his head back and laughed, the sound echoing in the room. “Shit. I forgot I told you about that.” He shook his head, grinning widely. “It was good.Realgood.” He wiggled his eyebrows.

That made me chuckle, and he leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss on my head. “Welcome home.”

My gaze shifted to the two little humans standing hesitantly by each other, their eyes wide with uncertainty.

I gave them both a warm smile. “Hey, buddies.”

“Gigi!” Tristan exclaimed, rushing to my side. “I brought you a picture I drew!” He held up a piece of paper with pride.

My smile widened as I took the drawing. “Oh, I love it!” He crawled onto the bed and sat beside me, excitement radiating off him. The picture depicted Tabi, me, and him, captured in his innocent crayon strokes.

“Thank you,” I said, kissing his cheek, and he wrapped his little arms around my neck, squeezing tightly. “I missed you.”

My chest cracked open at his words. “I missed you too, buddy.”

Aurelio piped up next, his small voice curious. “Are you back from your trip for good?”

I realized they must have crafted some narrative to explain my absence. “Yeah, buddy. I am.”

His smile was contagious. He jumped up and down with glee, running toward me. He climbed onto the bed, struggling a bit due to his tiny stature.

“There you go, little man,” Liam said, hoisting him until he was perched on my other side.

“Can we build another fort?” Aurelio asked, his eyes sparkling with hope.

“Yeah!” Tristan echoed enthusiastically.

I laughed, looking between them. “Yes. I would love that.”

“Promise?” Aurelio asked, his round eyes wide with anticipation.

“Promise,” I replied.

He grinned widely, showing off his little teeth, and hugged me once more. I glanced at Tabi, noticing her wiping away tears while Mya wore a similar expression—lingering sadness mixed with relief that I was finally back.

Dante, who had been standing near the door, finally spoke up. “How are you feeling, sweetheart?”

I met his steady gaze. “I’m getting better.”

He nodded, a hint of satisfaction in his expression. “Good. I’m happy to hear that. Do you need anything?”

I surveyed the room, feeling the comfort of their presence. “Just having you all here is enough,” I said.