Page 14 of The Genie’s Wish (Harmony Glen #10)
SEVEN YEARS LATER
RAYA
“Darling,” Arman calls out, and I can hear his footsteps approaching. “Don’t start yet.”
I let out a laugh, looking down at my hovering finger. Had he been a second later, I would’ve already just started tonight’s livestream.
Bringing my hand to my lap, I swivel my chair to face my door. There’s a knock, followed by it slowly opening.
Arman peaks his head in, grinning when he sees me waiting for him. The door opens fully, and he walks in.
His path is clear as he approaches me. Once he reaches me, his hands cup my cheeks, tipping my head upward.
My lips meet his, and I melt into his touch. He kisses me like he’s never going to see me again— every single kiss .
When he breaks away, he gives me a wink. “Had to get mine in before my competition gets here.”
Down the hall, I can hear the rumbling of footsteps. I brace myself for impact, but inside, my heart melts.
Coming through the doorframe are my twins, Luca and Miles, each holding one of their little sister’s hands. It’s the sweetest thing, seeing them help her.
“We wanted to make sure Eliana got here at the same time as us.” Luca releases Eliana’s hand, rushing over to me.
He leaps into my lap, throwing his little arms around my neck. Miles deserts his sister too, jumping up onto my other leg.
I squeeze them tight, letting Eliana get a bit closer before saying, “Alright, boys. It’s Eliana’s turn.”
They slide down with little dispute, even helping Eliana climb up into my lap. She rests her head against my chest, as if she’s ready to take a nap.
“Oh, babe…” I plead, looking at Arman and frowning.
As much as I want to just cuddle up with her and go to sleep, it’s a stream night. I have to work.
He scoops her up, hoisting her onto his hip. She rests her head against his shoulder, her eyelids heavy.
“Have a good stream, darling,” Arman says, gesturing for the boys to head to the door. “Who’s ready for a movie night with Dad?”
The boys race off, shouting out a chorus of “me, me, me!”
My smile grows as I look back up at Arman. He rubs Eliana’s back, swaying gently where he stands.
He is the best father a woman could want for her children. He’s also the best husband, more than I ever could have wished for.
When I have my hard days—or weeks—he’s supportive in every way. He’s never made me feel like my feelings are a burden.
There’s never been a moment that he’s made me feel invalid, unloved, or alone. He understands that I’m going to deal with my issues in the ways that work for me, probably for the rest of my life.
And he’s more than okay with that.
“I’m going to put her to bed, then the boys and I are watching one of the Spiderman movies.” He makes his way to the door, turning to grab the handle with his free hand.
I softly call out to him, “Sounds fun—I love you.”
“I love you too, Pinky.”
With that, he closes the door, but I still face it, lingering in the moment. How did I get so blessed to have so much love in my life? So much support?
It’s more than I ever could’ve wished for—but I’m glad I didn’t have to.
Read Orie’s story in SHADES OF LOVE , a cozy, shadow demon romance set in the Harmony Glen world!