Page 128 of Defend Her Heart

I take Avery’s hand in mine and we both turn to wave at Sophia where she stands on the front porch of her home. We just spent the entire afternoon with her and her new goats.

Yeah, that’s right. Goats.

Niko is such a fucking softie for his girls, he not only bought his daughter a goat, but he bought Sadie one too. He claimed it was an engagement present, but I know he would’ve gotten them the goats regardless, ring or not. Usually I’d give him shit for giving in so easily, but when I turn and look at my wife, I realize I’m the exact same way when it comes to her.

Avery and I try to visit Sophia at least once a week. Sometimes we take her on adventures, other times we just hang out here at her house. Not only does this give Niko and Sadie some time to themselves, but it also gives us a chance to spoil our favorite little girl.

We had a long talk about what the future looks like for us in terms of family. Avery was afraid to admit that she wasn’t sure if she wanted kids of her own anymore. I knew it was herdream in high school to maybe coach her daughter one day, but if there’s anything we’ve learned, it’s that dreams can change.

Things might’ve ended up a little different than we originally dreamt up all those years ago under the stars, but there’s one thing that will always hold true.

Avery is my dream.

And she’s the only thing I need.

Our steps slow as we approach my truck, but before Avery can escape to her side, I pull her into me, spinning her so we’re facing each other.

She inhales a breath on a surprised laugh. “What are you doing?”

I lean down and answer her with a kiss. Her body molds into mine on instinct, her arms looping around my neck as she opens her mouth for me. Our tongues tangle for a few seconds before I pull away abruptly.

Panting, Avery looks up at me with a gleam in her eye.

“Take me home.”

I gently push her hair behind her ear. It has grown out a bit over the summer, nearly brushing her shoulders now, and I keep hold of a strand, rubbing it between my fingers.

“I have a better idea.”

Avery’s eyebrow shoots up in wonderment.

“Are you up for a little adventure, Aves?”

Her eyes widen and I can tell by the slow tip of her lips, she’s remembering our first date when I asked her that same question and gave her that very nickname.

“With you? Always.”

We finally break apart, but I keep my feet planted, watching the sway of her hips as she makes her way to her door. She swings it open, stepping up onto the running board, but before she settles inside, she stands and looks at me over the roof of my truck.

“Well, are you coming?”

Avery’s smile is radiant, her silhouette painted by the most beautiful sunset happening behind her. Seeing her like this, carefree and happy after overcoming so much, it gives me another idea.

I jog to my door, not wanting to waste another second. As soon as I’m in my truck, I start the engine. But before I back out of Niko’s driveway, I turn to Avery and see her already looking at me.

“Ready, Mrs. Smith?’

She reaches across the center console and links her fingers through mine.

“I was born ready, Mr. Chamberlin.”

My eyes track the trees as they pass by in a blur. Connor turned onto the highway a few minutes ago but refuses to tell me where we’re going. I don’t think I really care what the destination is. I’d drive to California right now if it meant making more memories with him.

Turning to look his way, I study his profile. His hazel eyes are fixed on the road in front of him, so I take a moment to enjoy the view. My gaze moves from his hard jawline up to his lips. The moment they land on them, the corner of his mouth twitches up.

He knows I’m watching him.

I think he catches me staring at him at least five times a day. I just can’t believe he’s mine.