“I mean, if I can handle Gabe pushing me, then I can handle myself.”

She broke out into laughter and shook her head, raising a napkin to her lips. “Ridiculous.”

“Yes, I am ridiculous. But you like it.”

“IguessI like it.”

I smiled. “That was a wild night, wasn't it?”

“I wish I still had that dress. But I wouldn't trade it for a night under the stars.”

“I miss those times. I'm hoping we can keep having those times.”

“Yeah?”

I huffed with amusement and glanced down. After a few seconds, I met her gaze and leaned forward. “Well, I'm more than excited to share this news. I've accepted Steve's position at my job. I won't be leaving the US anymore.”

She bit her lower lip. “Oh, Levon, really?”

“Yeah, really.”

“Levon, that's . . . that's just,” she faded as her eyes brimmed with tears. “That's the best news I've heard all day.”

“I'm glad I could give that to you.”

She sniffled. “I just can't tell you how happy that makes me.”

“That's why I wanted to tell you face-to-face. I know what it means. I know that it means we can finally make this,” I took her hand gently in mine, “more than a thing of the past. It can be a thing of the future.”

“I get to see you all the time. Oh, I might get spoiled!”

I laughed. “It will be exciting for us to be together again. We could make so many more memories. It's going to be beautiful, Clara. I have so much in mind for us to do.”

“I have so much in mind, too.”

“Oh, yeah?”

She nodded while she fanned herself. She giggled and dropped her head forward, trying to hide her tears. When she lifted her head, I handed her a napkin and she dabbed her eyes while sniffling.

“It's your turn,” I said. “Lay it on me, sweetheart.”

“Well, this news has great timing because I'd love for you to move in with me.”

I stared at her.

Her eyes widened and she quickly added, “I mean, if it’s just until you find a place that’s okay. I just thought maybe I could see you more that way and all I ever wanted was to see you more.”

I cleared my throat and raised my fist to my lips. I was biting back tears. I chuckled slightly to cover up a small sob and then shook my head, letting a smile take over my mouth.

“Oh, sweetie,” I whispered. “I don't know what to say.”

“You don't have to say anything. I understand if that's too much too soon. It just seemed like the right timing, you know? Considering you're staying in the US, it would be perfect if you came to live with me. I mean, it's just what feels right to me, you know?”

“Darling, I would love nothing more than to live with you.”

She hiccupped. “Yeah?”

I stood up from my chair and dragged it over to her side of the table. When I sat down, I wrapped her in a huge hug. I held her gently while she cried softly, running my fingers through her curls. I cradled her as I had a million times in the past.