Page 213 of The Path to Loving Him
Mac is intent on watching.
Gabby is attached to my side, letting me feel her love.
And I sit there, the happiest motherfucker to ever live because the stars have aligned.
For the first time in my life . . . I’m content, I’m happy, and I want time to slow down.
I want to savor these moments, cherish them, keep them so close to my heart that I never let go.
I want this . . . forever.
I can see it.
I can see the future play out. I can see Gabby in a white dress, standing at the back of the aisle, as Mac tosses flower petals to the ground, looking so fucking adorable in a puffy dress with Chewy Charles sticking out the front.
I can feel the love of that day, the lightness, and the presence of Cassidy, as if she had planned this all along. Where she knew I needed to learn to love. It’s as though she gave me Mac as a way to break the seal, to open me up and make me realize I’m more than just the stoic asshole I was growing up. More than just the punching bag.
That thereisworth within me. I have so much more to give than I ever thought possible.
It’s as if Cassidy knew that granting me custody of this precious little girl would open me up to someone like Gabby. Someone who brings light to my life and who, in return, makes me feel safe and needed, not discarded.
I know everything will work out as long as I have these two. They will be all I need, nothing else. Us.
Forever.
Hattie:Okay, can we just pause for a moment and acknowledge the cuteness of this picture?
I click on the picture Hattie sent, taking a good look at it. My body melts with happiness.
It’s of Mac, Gabby, and me, sitting in the suite, staring out at the field. My arm is around Gabby, and Mac is pointing. We look like the perfect little family, and it’s doing a whole bunch of things to my insides. I save the photo and text her back.
Ryland:Did you take this?
Hattie:I did. I was in love watching you guys today.
Aubree:So was I. It was great seeing you three together.
Ryland:I loved it. Thank you for coming today.
Hattie:I’ve come in more ways than one.
Ryland:Jesus, Hattie.
Aubree:Same.
Ryland:Both of you, none of that shit.
Hattie:Are you saying you didn’t come in more than one way?
Aubree:Sad day for you.
Ryland:If you want to go there . . .
Hattie:Hmm, do I? *taps chin* Doubt he’ll say anything. He’s such a prude.
Aubree:I doubt it too, but also, I don’t want to read about it. It’s Ryland, after all.He’s . . . blek.
Ryland:Uh, excuse me? Blek?
