Just One Look

“Ten years I’ve been your captive,” she teases. I bite her neck, making her squeal before I pull her out of the bed and carry her toward the bathroom to start our day.

I’ve been planning this day for a few months now with the help of Grams, Ace, and Fawn’s best friend, Kennedy. While neither of us have regrets about our wedding day, I still want to give her one she truly deserves. A celebration of the life she has given all of us.

“What’s going on?” Fawn asks when she exits the bathroom. All four of our children are sitting on the bed. Ace, Luca, Marco, and Lily. Lily is wiggling all around with excitement. She’s about to burst. I can see it in her eyes. I’m surprised she’s been able to hold it in this long. It’s why I didn’t tell her anything about this wedding until the last minute. I knew there was no way she’d be able to keep it from Fawn.

“I’m a flower girl!” she shouts before putting her hand over her mouth.

“You’re the worst at keeping secrets.” Luca rolls his eyes at Lily.

“Am not.” She gives him a glare, looking every bit like her mother. Thank fuck she has three older brothers.

“You guys want to tell me what’s going on?” Fawn walks over to the bed, giving out kisses.

“We’re getting married.” I wrap my arm around her waist from behind.

“What?” I turn her in my arms.

“A wedding. With all of our friends and family.” Her whole face lights up.

Ten years ago, there would have been three guests. Not so much anymore. I tried to keep it somewhat small, but I think Kennedy said we’re at seventy-five at this point.

Fawn took Rebecca and Jim up on being a part of Healing Home. The things she’s accomplished are truly amazing. She’s touched so many lives. I know it makes her happy to be able to help any woman or girl that is struggling. It’s become so important to her, and I believe it’s helped her on her journey to heal. Having a family of her own had started it.

“I’m going to walk you down the aisle, Mom,” Ace declares, hopping down from the bed and puffing his chest out.

“I would love that.” She turns around, pulling Ace into a hug. She hadn’t only saved me, but she healed him too. All the other kids jump on, hugging Fawn too. Lily’s little hand comes out, tugging me in, so much like her mother.

I wrap my arms around all of them. My chest feels full. I never knew this kind of love existed. Fawn created this world for us, and I’ll go to any lengths to keep it safe. She looks up at me with tears in her eyes.

“I love you,” she says, and everyone says it back. I lean down and kiss my wife. She will forever be mine. I wouldn't let it be any other way.

Who knew your whole world could change with just one look?

* * *