And then, it hits us both – a wave of such intense pleasure that we cry out in unison. Our bodies move together as an electrifying sensation courses through us. My own climax follows closely behind hers, a powerful surge that leaves me breathless.

I collapse beside her, the exhaustion pulling me under. I feel her body relax next to me, her legs uncoiling from my waist to fall limp against the bed. With great affection, I pull her toward me so she remains nestled against my chest. Her breath tickles the hair on my chest, a soft, whispered lullaby that lulls me into a state of calmness like nothing else.

As our breathing slows, a sense of contentment washes over us. We lay there in silence, my fingers tracing gentle circles on her back and drawing quiet sighs from her lips. The steady rhythm of our heartbeats becomes the only sound as we drift off entwined together.

CHAPTER 28

Meiko

The backyard is alive with the sounds of our extended families mingling together, laughter and cheerful chatter filling the air. Blankets are spread out on the grass as we all enjoy the sunny day and each other's company.

Mustaf gets behind the grill and eventually, the mouthwatering scent of sizzling meat fills the air as he flips burgers and hot dogs with practiced ease. Our families mill about the backyard, chatting happily and sipping drinks in the summer sun.

"Babe, those ribs smell amazing!" I say, sidling up beside Mustaf. "Your special recipe?"

He winks. "You know it. I'm pulling out all the stops to impress our guests today."

I laugh and kiss his cheek. "I think you already have. Especially my dad. He's been eyeing the grill hungrily."

Just then, my little cousin Nia runs over, pigtails flying. "Mr. Mustaf, I want a hot dog with lots of ketchup!"

He smiles indulgently. "Coming right up, kiddo."

As Mustaf hands Nia her hot dog, my aunt approaches holding out her plate. "The ribs really do smell divine, Mustaf," she says. "I'd love to try them."

"It would be my pleasure!" He carefully places two glistening ribs on her plate.

I glance around at our families mingling so warmly and feel my heart swell. With Mustaf by my side, this merging of our two worlds feels natural and right. The happy sounds of laughter and sizzling meat fill the air as I breathe in the mouth-watering smells.

Soon everyone is heaping their plates high and settling in to eat. The happy sounds of laughter and chatter mix with appreciative murmurs as they dig in.

"Mmm, these ribs are heavenly!" Mom raves, licking BBQ sauce from her fingers. "Absolute perfection, Mustaf."

My aunt fans herself after trying a spicy sausage link. "Woo! Delicious heat! You've got some skills, young man."

Mustaf beams, clearly thrilled. "Means a lot coming from my new family."

I squeeze his arm, beyond touched at how well this is going. Our parents continue raving about the food, going back for seconds and thirds. Mustaf’s siblings tease him, of course, but I notice they’re eating a pretty healthy portion themselves.

As I look around the table at all the happy, satisfied faces, my heart swells. Mustaf's incredible barbecue has brought our families together so wonderfully.

Laughter rings out as Nia smears ketchup all over her face. The smoky scents of grilled meat fill the air. Right here, enjoying the bounty of Mustaf's grill with those we love, feels absolutely perfect. I wouldn't change a thing.

I slide onto the bench next to Mustaf, pressing close against his side as he throws a few more burgers on the grill.

"Having fun, babe?" I ask, kissing his shoulder.

He grins. "Absolutely. Just look at our families all mingling together."

I follow his gaze to see Nia giggling as she chases his younger cousins across the lawn. Mustaf’s brother is teaching some of the other kids how to whistle with a blade of grass. Our parents are gathered around the picnic table chatting amiably over glasses of lemonade.

"It's perfect." I sigh contentedly.

Mustaf wraps an arm around me. "Couldn't agree more, my love. And how's the food? Up to standards?"

"Are you kidding? It's incredible!" I assure him. "Everyone is raving about your barbecue skills. I think you've got some new fans."

He chuckles. "Well, I aim to impress the in-laws. But as long as you're enjoying yourself, that's all that matters to me."