Page 72 of Entangled
“We have special Christmas visitors,” I announce, leading them toward my family. “This handsome gentleman is my father, Frederic Punzel. And the lovely woman by his side is Greta, my future stepmom.”
She hops up and rushes over with a warm smile. “Hello, and Merry Christmas. You must be Henry.”
“Yes, ma’am.” He shakes her hand. “Merry Christmas to you too.”
“This is Henry’s sister, Dahlia.”
She and Greta embrace as Dad wheels himself over to us. “Hello, there.”
“Mr. Punzel.” Henry clears his throat and holds out his hand. “I’m Henry Flynn, your daughter’s—”
“My daughter’s boyfriend,” Dad finishes, smiling up at Henry from his wheelchair as they shake hands. There’s approval in his gaze and something else. Relief.
“Yes, sir. That’s correct.”
“Holy shit. I actually have a boyfriend,” I squeal, wrapping my arms around Henry.
Hugging me tightly, he gifts me with one of his megawatt smiles. “I’ll be whatever you want me to be, Princess.”
“Who’s hungry?” Dahlia asks. “I made lasagna.”
Dad’s eyes light up. “Oh, IloveItalian food.”
“You’re in for a treat, sir. Our mother is Italian, and my sister knows all her recipes.”
So far, so good.
Henry, Dad, and Dahlia gather around the table while Greta and I head into the kitchen for plates and silverware. Once everything is all set, we join them at the table.
Dad lifts his wine glass. “I’d like to propose a toast. Here’s to health, happiness, and good fortune. Merry Christmas, everyone.”
“If it’s all right, I’d like to add to that,” Henry says, raising his glass. “Here’s to hope, healing, new beginnings,” he meets my gaze, “and everlasting love.”
Dad chuckles and clinks his glass to Henry’s. “We just met and you’re already outdoing my toasts?”
Henry smiles. “I’d say I’m sorry for that, sir, but I’m really not.”
“It’s all right. I won’t hold it against you.”
“I also won’t apologize for loving your daughter, so I’d appreciate if you don’t hold that against me either.”
Oh my God.
“Never apologize for loving her,” Dad says fiercely. “And you’d better make damn sure you love her with your whole heart, and every piece of your soul because that’s what she deserves.”
“I will, sir. You have my word.” Henry’s gaze meets mine once more. Unspoken promises dance in his eyes.
Maybe I’m dreaming, or maybe it’s a Christmas miracle, but for the first time in my life, I am at peace with my past, and hopeful for the future.
* * *
