Page 65 of Vintage

“Can we sit in that booth, Dad?” Luna asked, her excitement palpable.

“Absolutely, princess.” I maneuvered the stroller to a comfy corner. Amery settled in beside Luna, her heart swelling with happiness as she saw our daughter so thrilled.

Once I took my seat, I handed the menus to my girls, and before long, we decided on our orders. The waiter was really nice and brought Luna a complimentary lime and orange juice since it was their soft opening tonight.

While I chatted with Luna, Amery checked on Jay, and just like that, our food arrived.

Every little smile from Amery and her playful scoffs at Luna made me laugh. The ring on her finger still brings me joy. I often wonder what I would have done if she ever thought about giving up on me.

“Dad has got his eyes on Mom again.” Luna couldn’t help but giggle, which got some amused reactions from the families around us. She has thisknack for picking up on my looks and adding her own twist to them. Like how she sees her mom as a princess and thinks her dad looks like a kidnapper who whisked her away.

I still can’t figure out why I never get to be the Prince in her stories, especially when she casts that big guy Darius in that role. But hey, my little girl still thinks I’m the best. She says I’m a dragon who protects her princess mom from the bad guys.

“Come on, Ro… Cut it out,” Amery said, blushing as she scolded me, but I just can’t help it. I’m head over heels for her.

Dinner was filled with laughter as I shared tales from my day, and Amery talked about a car that looked like it needed divine intervention rather than a mechanic. Then Luna jumped in, excitedly sharing her latest preschool adventure, her words spilling out in a cheerful rush.

Amery and I exchanged knowing looks, filling me with pride.

Meanwhile, Jay was completely absorbed in a colorful toy hanging from his stroller, blissfully unaware of the conversation.

“Look at him,” Amery said with a smile, gently squeezing his tiny hand.

After dinner, we walked home under the warm glow of the streetlights. Luna danced ahead, her laughter echoing like a sweet melody.

Walking hand in hand with Amery brought back so many memories, and I felt grateful for every single moment. I appreciate the woman who trusts me so deeply. We’ve come a long way, building a home and a family that we can always return to.

I might not buy into curses or rumors, but I’ve definitely come to believe in the fairytales and happy endings that my sweet daughter adores.

Back at home, Amery smoothly navigated the kids’ bedtime routine.

I took care of changing Jay while she helped Luna.

“Don’t forget to brush your teeth, sweetie,” Amery reminded Luna, and I tucked Jay into his crib, softly humming a lullaby.

Once the little ones were settled, Amery and I stepped into our garden. I had transformed it into a greenhouse filled with beautiful flowers that would surely delight Luna and Jay.

“It’s so nice to have this time just for us,” she said with a smile, yawning and stretching her arms overhead before wrapping them around my bicep and resting her head against it as we walked slowly.

The night air felt cool and refreshing. We strolled side by side, stealing glances at the stars above, a reminder of how far we’ve come.

“Can you believe how much has changed?” I asked, giving Amery’s hand a gentle squeeze. I then took her finger and kissed her wedding ring, followed by a soft kiss on her fingers.

She sighed happily, a sweet smile spreading across her face.

“It feels like a dream,” she said, her eyes sparkling with joy. “After everything, we’re finally here.”

I smiled back, suddenly curious about something that popped into my mind.

Why are you staring at me like that? Got a penny for your thoughts? She wore a playful smile, and from the look on her face, I could tell she was eager to hear what I had to say.

“I was just thinking about that story you shared about your grandma. I never asked what it really meant back then… Can I ask now?” The haze of the bar night clouded my mind as I swept my wife up in my arms like a bride.

She gasped in surprise, but when she saw my grin, laughter bubbled up from her.

“Sure…” Her voice dropped to a sultry whisper. She placed her finger on my lips, leaned in close, and teased, “What’s the fun in giving in without a little struggle… So, make me spill it… Amir Rowan.”

My eyes widened, and I hurried us to our room. Her soft laughter filled the air, and in that moment, I realized why I had found that ring years ago in the Willow Mansion.

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