Page 81 of Aussie
Her eyes softened as she leaned against the counter. “I know you like her, but how serious is it, Ty?”
He didn’t hesitate. “I love her.”
His mom’s face lit up, and she clasped her hands together. “Oh, honey, I’m so happy to hear that. Ava is wonderful, and Christian? That boy has stolen my heart. I can already see them both as part of our family.”
Aussie’s heart swelled at her words, but he tempered his excitement with caution. “I feel the same, but we don’t know how Christian’s situation will play out. The courts and the state could still—”
She held up her hand, stopping him from continuing. “I believe everything will work out. Ava is exactly the personChristian needs. Anyone with half a brain can see that. You just keep doing what you’re doing, supporting them both. The rest will fall into place.”
Before Aussie could respond, the sound of footsteps approached, and Christian appeared in the doorway. His shoulders were slumped, and his expression was clouded with uncertainty.
“Morning, buddy,” Aussie greeted, setting his mug down. “What’s wrong?”
Christian hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck. “It’s nothing,” he muttered.
Aussie turned to face him and met his gaze. “Hey, if something’s bothering you, you can tell me.”
Christian sighed, his cheeks turning pink. “It’s just I wanted to get Ava something for Christmas. Something meaningful, you know? For everything she’s done for me. But I don’t have any money.”
Aussie’s heart broke a little, but he was also deeply impressed by the boy’s thoughtfulness. He reached out, placing a hand on Christian’s shoulder. “You know what? I was planning to run to the store this morning. How about you come with me, and we’ll pick something out for Ava together?”
Christian’s face lit up, his eyes wide with excitement. “Really?”
“Really,” Aussie confirmed, ruffling his hair. “Go grab your shoes and coat.”
Christian bolted out of the kitchen, leaving Aussie standing with his mom, who was watching him with tears glistening in her eyes.
“I’m proud of you, honey,” she said softly. “You’ve got a big heart. Just keep following it, and everything will be okay.”
Aussie smiled, her words sinking deep into his soul. “Thanks, Mom.”
She reached up to squeeze his hand before turning to refill her coffee. As Christian reappeared, ready to go, Aussie grabbed his keys and gestured toward the door.
???
Ava slowly blinked her eyes open and looked around the room. At first, she was confused, but then she remembered that she was in Aussie’s room.
Her thoughts drifted back to the night before, their date replaying in vivid detail.The sleigh ride, and then the way he held her close as they danced. The way his eyes locked onto hers was like she was the only woman in the world. And then the way he’d kissed her and made love to her, taking her breath away and unraveling her defenses completely.
She blushed, her smile deepening as she thought about their night together. Aussie had been everything—passionate yet gentle, assertive yet tender. He hadn’t just made her feel wanted. He’d made her feel loved. Ava ran her fingers across the pillow next to her, already missing him.
But reality was beginning to settle in.She would have to talk to Christian about all of this. They had to be honest with him about how serious her and Aussie’s relationship was becoming. Deep down, she knew he wouldn’t mind. Christian adored Aussie, but it was still a conversation that couldn’t wait.
With a sigh, she rolled out of bed, shivering slightly as her bare feet touched the cool floor. The room smelled of pine from the Christmas tree in the corner, and the festive decorations made her smile again. Grabbing her robe, she slipped out of Aussie’s room and padded back to her own to shower and get ready for the day.
After freshening up and pulling on a long-sleeved t-shirt and jeans, Ava made her way downstairs. The enticing aromaof fresh coffee and baked goods greeted her as she entered the kitchen. Aussie’s mom was there, humming softly to herself as she worked at the counter.
“Good morning,” Ava greeted, grabbing a mug and pouring herself some coffee.
Aussie’s mom turned, her smile warm and inviting. “Good morning, sweetheart. Did you sleep well?”
Ava felt a flush creep up her neck, but she nodded. “I did. Thank you.”
“Good.” Aussie’s mom wiped her hands on a towel and gestured to the empty room. “Aussie had to run into town for a few things. He took Christian with him.”
Ava smiled, glad they were spending time together. Christian admired Aussie so much, and she knew it would mean a lot to him.
“Can I help you with anything?” Ava asked, setting her coffee down and moving toward the counter.
