Page 89 of Saddle and Bound

From that moment on, Aunt Tina and Ethan become inseparable, monopolizing the karaoke with an endless series of duets. They move from classics to more recent hits, with Aunt Tina adding her personal touch to every song.

I observe Rosie, who has remained cuddled up to me for most of the evening, and I'm very happy to see her smile. She seems happy... she's been more anxious lately, and I'm glad to see her more relaxed. And it's wonderful to see her so affectionate toward me. I continue caressing her, pausing only to give her kisses on her cheek. Then her forehead. Then the tip of her nose. Finally, she's the one who kisses me on the lips, unable to hold back.

"Kids!" exclaims Aunt Tina between songs. "We absolutely must make some videos to post on Facebook. My followers will go crazy!"

Rosie bursts out laughing in my face while she was about to give me another kiss, then amused, takes out her phone and starts filming. "Aunt Tina, I didn't know you were so social!"

I feel inexplicably happy hearing Rosie call Aunt Tina "aunt"... she had specified from the start that Rosie should call her that, but seeing that Rosie feels part of my whole world... it warms my heart.

"Oh, dear," responds Aunt Tina with a wink, "at a certain age, you have to keep up with the times. Besides, how else could I share my pearls of wisdom with the world?"

After yet another duet, Aunt Tina pulls Ethan aside, though they're still within earshot of everyone.

"Ethan, darling," she says conspiratorially, "since you're a fashionable young man, give me some advice on how to make new conquests."

Ethan, surprised but amused, responds, "Well, Aunt Tina, being yourself is always the best approach. Have you tried any group courses or activities?"

Aunt Tina sighs theatrically. "Oh, Ethan, if you only knew. I tried a group dance class last week."

"And how did it go?" asks Ethan, curious.

"A disaster!" exclaims Aunt Tina, shaking her head. "I thought I'd find a young, energetic group ready to let loose, and instead..."

Chapter 57

Rosie

I can hardly remember why the decision to move to the ranch seemed so difficult. Immersed in this fantastic family atmosphere, with laughter filling the air and surrounded by warmth and affection, I feel cherished and happy in a way I've never experienced before.

Alex is by my side, his arm wrapped protectively around my waist. Even though I occasionally catch him throwing amused glances at Aunt Tina, trying to tease her with provocative questions, he doesn't let go of me for a moment. And I haven't moved away from him for even a second. Being cuddled up against him is the most wonderful feeling in the world. His touch is reassuring, a constant reminder that this is where I belong.

And then there's Aunt Tina. Why has no one ever told me about her before? She's absolutely fantastic! I watch her as she tells yet another improbable story, gesturing animatedly and making everyone laugh hysterically. Her energy is contagious, her spirit indomitable.

"I swear!" Aunt Tina is saying, "I was so startled that my tooth fell out... and it was the front one... I had to rush to the dentist!"

I burst out laughing with the others, imagining the scene. Aunt Tina has a gift for turning every anecdote into a hilarious adventure.

I snuggle closer to Alex, feeling grateful and happy. This is the family I've always wanted, the sense of belonging I've searched for my entire life.

"Hey," Alex whispers in my ear, "what are you thinking about? You look so peaceful."

I smile at him, my heart swelling with love. "I think this evening is perfect," I whisper back. "And I'm lucky to be here, with you, with all of you."

Alex pulls me closer and places a gentle kiss on my temple. "We're the lucky ones to have you here," he murmurs.

At that moment, Aunt Tina stands up, raising her glass. "A toast!" she exclaims. "To family, old and new. And to Rosie, my new niece-by-choice. Welcome, dear. Prepare yourself for a life of madness and love!"

Everyone raises their glasses, and I feel enveloped by a wave of affection.Yes, I think to myself while returning Aunt Tina's smile,I'm ready for this life of madness and love. I couldn't wish for anything better.

While we hold our glasses up for the toast, my heart is full of gratitude. I can't stop thinking about how fortunate I am to be here, surrounded by people I already consider family.

But just then, a sound catches my attention. The roar of a powerful engine makes its way up the ranch's driveway. Turning, I see a white Porsche approaching slowly, its headlights cutting through the evening darkness.

The car stops a few steps away from us, the engine dies, and a sudden silence falls over the party. It's Lexy's reaction that immediately catches my eye. In an instant, I see her transform before my eyes. The smile vanishes from her face, replaced by an expression I've never seen before. Her eyes, usually warm and welcoming, harden, fixing on the car with a mixture of shock and... is that fear I see? Her shoulders visibly stiffen, as if preparing for a blow. Her hands, which until a moment ago were holding her glass lightly, are now clenched into fists so tight that her knuckles are white.

I instinctively press closer to Alex, seeking comfort and protection. I feel his body tense beside me, his arm holding me a bit tighter. "Who is it?" I whisper to Alex, confused by this sudden change in atmosphere.

Before Alex can answer, the car door opens. My heart pounds in my chest, a strange tension in the air that I can't fully comprehend.

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