Page 81 of One Pucking Life

He has the nerve to smile. “I didn’t know she was your sister-in-law.”

“Does that make it better? You shouldn’t be here. You showed up to stir drama, not because you care about me or Mom or anything we have going on in our lives.”

His face sobers. “You look good, Laney. I’m… happy… for you.” He struggles to say the last part, as if kindness costs him something.

“Thanks,” I say flatly. “If you truly care or want a relationship, we’ll have to address that another time. But tonight is not about you. I need you to leave. Straight for the door, no stops—gone.”

He opens his mouth like he might argue, but for once, he doesn’t. He just nods and sets his drink down. “I’ll go. Tell your mom thanks for the invite.”

I watch him walk out. My chest is tight, but I’m not crumbling. He won’t call or follow up, just like he hasn’t since my graduation. For whatever reason, I’m not worth his time. And because I don’t let him use me, I’m not worth his effort either.

I’ve had many confrontations with my father over the years that have always left me shattered, but now? I feel annoyed—sure—but more than anything, I still feel whole. I feel happy.

My gaze finds Max across the bar, and I can’t help but smile as I see his eyes nervously flicking back and forth between me and his conversation. I have no doubt he was ready to come to my rescue if I needed him.

My mother’s at my side now, grabbing my arm. “Where did your dad go?”

“He left because he wasn’t invited.”

“Honey, he’s your father?—”

I cut her off. “Mom, I’ve set boundaries, and you should, too. I love you, but we can talk about this later. I’m not going to let him taint another second of this night.” I reach forward and squeeze her hand. “Let’s have fun.”

Tears spring to her eyes, and she nods slowly. “Okay.”

I hug her, then step away, needing a moment.

I find Max waiting, his gaze steady.

“You okay?”

“Actually... yeah. I think I am.”

I rest my head on his shoulder. “A few years ago, that would’ve wrecked me. But now? I feel... strong. Stable. Like I know who I am. And I think a big part of that is you.”

He wraps an arm around me, pulling me close.

“I’m so proud of you,” he whispers.

“Thank you,” I whisper back.

I hear Beckett beside me. “Laney, I think you dropped something.”

“What?” I turn toward him. “Are you…”

“Kidding!” He laughs. “Here you go.” He hands me my favorite drink.

I shake my head. “Fine. With this drink, you’re forgiven—but that note parade was a one-time thing.”

“Yeah, good thing. Some of those were a little kinky.” He wags his eyebrows.

“Leave her alone.” Elena shoos her husband away and calls over her shoulder, “Congrats again, guys!”

Max and I chuckle.

The party surges on. It’s just as fun as it was a few nights ago—well, almost. I mean, nothing will top that night. But I feel different. The familiar, overwhelming feeling of love that’s engulfed me is still present, but something inside me has shifted.

I’ve finally healed a trauma that I’ve kept buried for years. Maybe I’ve been slowly letting it go this whole time, and that one conversation just helped me realize it.

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