Chapter 7: Home at Last

Maybe sensing its fate, the fish in the water swam around like it was auditioning for a prison break.

I almost felt bad for it. Almost.

I was silent for three seconds, then with a swift motion, caught the fish, which flapped its fat body in the air.

I let out a little yelp, nearly dropping it back in the sink.

Here’s the problem: I had the courage to catch the fish, but not to actually kill it.

I stared at it, heart pounding. Could I really do this? For Ethan—and Daisy—I had to try.

...

I knelt on the floor, both hands pressing down on the fish that had slipped off the cutting board countless times. Now, it lay there, big eyes rolling, too tired to struggle.

I looked like a contestant on a reality show—"Next Food Network Star: Cat Edition." My hair was a mess, my shirt was damp, and the fish was giving me side-eye.

No need for a mirror—I knew how disheveled I looked after wrestling with the fish for half an hour.

If anyone had walked in, they’d have thought I was losing my mind.

Luckily, Ethan was working late tonight and couldn’t see me like this.

Thank God for small mercies. I was pretty sure my dignity couldn’t take another hit today.

Just as I relaxed, a pair of shiny black men’s dress shoes appeared in my field of vision.

I blinked. This couldn’t be happening.

I was dumbfounded.

My grip on the fish loosened.

I froze, my brain refusing to process what was happening.

The fish thought it could escape, but was caught by a bigger, stronger hand.

Ethan’s hand. Of course. He made it look effortless.

It gave up struggling.

But I didn’t—I kept scratching at the floor.

I tried to play it cool, but I was pretty sure I looked like a toddler caught finger-painting on the walls.

A voice sounded above me: "Stop looking. My floor has no cracks. When I renovated, I specifically told the workers not to leave any gaps."

I looked up, startled. Was Ethan… making a joke? I almost smiled, despite my mortification.

...

Whoa.

Ethan even cracked a cold joke.

Was this progress? I’d take it.

Embarrassed, I stood up and saw Ethan standing where I’d been, frowning as he surveyed the kitchen.

His eyes swept over the mess—flour on the counter, water on the floor, and me, looking like I’d just lost a food fight. I braced myself, ready for the lecture.

Biting my lip, I followed his gaze.

The kitchen was a disaster zone, thanks to me.

I felt about two inches tall. If there was a trapdoor, I’d have gladly disappeared.

I had a thousand excuses ready, but none would come out. In the end, I just hung my head in silence.

My tongue was tied in knots. I couldn’t even muster a joke.

"You..."

"I’ll clean up right away."

I blurted it out, desperate to save face. If I moved fast enough, maybe he’d forget what he’d seen.

Before Ethan could say another word, I hurried to tidy up.

I grabbed a sponge and started scrubbing like my life depended on it.

"Go rest in the living room for a bit."

His tone was gentle but firm. I knew better than to argue.

...

Hearing the annoyance in Ethan’s tone, I pouted and walked to the living room, feeling wronged.

I slumped onto the sofa, sulking. Why did I always mess things up in front of him?

On the sofa, Biscuit and Daisy, who should’ve been asleep, were already awake.

They perked up the moment I sat down, as if they’d been waiting for me.

When I sat down, the two cats seemed to sense my mood and immediately snuggled into my arms, affectionately rubbing against me.

I stroked their fur, letting their warmth calm my nerves. At least someone appreciated my efforts.

With the double comfort from Biscuit and Daisy, my frustration quickly faded.

I took a deep breath, letting go of my embarrassment. Tomorrow was a new day.

Biscuit, being outgoing, jumped off the sofa and wandered around as if he owned the place.

He strutted through Ethan’s apartment like he’d lived there his whole life. I envied his confidence.

Just as I was about to scold him, Ethan came over with the cat food.

He placed a bowl on the coffee table, his sleeves rolled up, looking unfairly handsome for someone who’d just cleaned up my disaster.

Maybe he’d just gotten off work, because Ethan hadn’t even changed clothes. His white shirt sleeves were rolled up, exposing his arms—so delicious... no, so good-looking.

I had to look away, afraid I’d start drooling.

With his tie half loosened, Ethan exuded a cool, restrained charm.

He looked like the lead in a Netflix drama—smart, capable, and just a little bit mysterious.

This rare opportunity—I can’t let it slip by.

I sat up straighter, determined to make the most of it.

I was just thinking of an excuse to stay the night when a bolt of lightning streaked across the sky, thunder rumbled outside, and the rain hammered the windows with a deafening roar.

The storm was so sudden, it felt like the universe was giving me a sign.

My eyes lit up.

Whoa.

It’s the end of the year—fate must be trying to hit its end-of-year bonus!

I was grateful for the excuse, even if it was a little obvious.

"Um, Ethan, can I stay in your living room tonight? I’m afraid of thunder. I’ve been scared since I was a kid. As soon as it stops, I’ll leave."

I tried to sound casual, but my heart was pounding. Please say yes, please say yes…

As soon as I finished, the thunder outside grew even louder.

The universe had my back tonight. I sent up a silent thank-you.

Wish granted—I got to stay.

Ethan nodded, gesturing to the sofa. I tried to hide my smile.

The empty living room was all mine.

I made myself comfortable, tucking my legs under me. The storm outside made everything feel cozy and intimate.

Even with the thunder outside, I could clearly hear the sound of running water from the bathroom.

Ethan was showering. I tried not to let my mind wander, but…

I swallowed.

Biscuit and Daisy had disappeared somewhere.

Probably off exploring, or maybe hiding from the storm.

Looking at the lightning and thunder outside, I suddenly felt timid.

I hugged a pillow, wishing I was braver—wishing I could just tell Ethan how I felt. But nope. Still a coward.

Damn, I’m really not cut out for bold moves.

I sighed. Maybe next time.

Thinking about pouncing on Ethan—I can only dream about it for now.

I laughed at myself. Maybe one day I’d have the courage.

Getting up, I quickly went to find Biscuit.

I needed a distraction, and Biscuit was always good for that.

Now that I’d calmed down, all I wanted was to grab Biscuit and make a quiet exit.

I tiptoed down the hall, calling softly.

"Biscuit, my good boy, meow, where are you?" I called softly.

My voice echoed in the quiet apartment. I hoped Ethan wouldn’t think I was talking to myself.

Amid the water and thunder, I seemed to hear Biscuit respond. Following the sound, I reached a bedroom door.

The door was half-open. I peeked inside, heart pounding.

Through the half-closed door, I saw Biscuit and Daisy curled up under the desk.

They looked so peaceful, I almost didn’t want to disturb them.

Like a thief, I glanced behind me to make sure no one was there, then gritted my teeth, rushed in, and in the room filled with Ethan’s scent, scooped up Biscuit and ran out.

I moved fast, hoping not to get caught. My face was burning with embarrassment.

The next moment.

Fate repeated itself.

I crashed into that chest again.

It was like déjà vu—the same solid chest, the same electric jolt.

The only difference was, the owner of this chest had grown up, becoming even more mature.

He was broader now, more confident. My heart did a little flip.

Even the feel was different.

So solid.

Don’t ask me how I noticed the texture—it’s because the owner was only wearing a bath towel.

I tried not to stare, but it was impossible. The man was a walking Calvin Klein ad.

Such a shocking impact almost knocked me out.

I stumbled, clutching Biscuit like a lifeline.

I didn’t know where to look.

My eyes darted everywhere but his face. I was pretty sure I was blushing from head to toe.

Biscuit in my arms broke free easily and, together with Daisy, vanished from sight.

Traitors, both of them. I glared after them—next time, no treats.

Ethan, fresh from his shower, had droplets of water in his hair that dripped onto my neck, making me shiver and instinctively grab onto him.

His skin was warm, and his scent—clean, soapy, a little spicy—wrapped around me.

"Where do you want to go?"

His warm breath brushed my ear, his deep, sexy voice lingering.

I almost blurted out, "I want to go inside you."

My brain short-circuited. I bit my tongue just in time, thank God. That would’ve been one for the group chat.

Luckily, I stopped myself in time.

I forced myself to focus, willing my voice to work.

Moving my hands away from his defined abs, my face grew red and hot.

I probably looked like a tomato. I stared at the floor, mortified.

"I-I came to find Biscuit." My stammering betrayed my guilt.

I didn’t even try to sound cool. There was no point.

I didn’t even dare look Ethan in the eye.

"It’s late. Go rest."

His voice was softer now, almost gentle.

"Okay, I’ll go to the living room now."

I nodded, backing away like a cartoon character tiptoeing out of trouble.

Ethan stood at the door, unmoving.

He watched me, expression unreadable.

Just as I was about to look up, a gentle force on my shoulder nudged me into the room.

"Harper, good night!"

He said my name like it was something precious. My heart skipped a beat.

...

So, my name, spoken by Ethan, sounded so beautiful.

I hugged myself, grinning like an idiot. This was better than any dream.

Ugh!

I silently squealed in the room.

I flopped onto the bed, rolling around in disbelief. Was this real life?

Ethan actually let me sleep in his room, on his bed.

I buried my face in the pillow, breathing in his scent. It was like being wrapped in a cloud.

Staring at the big bed, I hesitated to get on. But only for a moment—the next second, I flopped right onto it.

I stretched out, letting myself sink into the softness. This was heaven.

Soft.

So soft.

Hehe.

I giggled, feeling like a teenager at a sleepover. I hugged the pillow tighter.

After that night, my relationship with Ethan made great progress.

Something had shifted between us—something warm and hopeful.

At least, when I was with him, thanks to Biscuit and Daisy, I was no longer as restrained and cautious as before. The atmosphere was much more relaxed.

We laughed more, talked more. Even the silences felt comfortable.

I secretly rejoiced.

I’d never been this happy, not even during my best college days.

But as time passed, seeing Daisy’s belly grow, I started to worry.

I watched her every day, feeling a strange mix of excitement and dread.

After Daisy gives birth, will I have nothing to do with her anymore?

Would my excuse to see Ethan disappear, just like that?

By then, will Ethan and I go back to being just neighbors, only occasionally running into each other in the elevator?

The thought made my chest ache. I wasn’t ready to let go.

Every time I met Ethan’s deep, soul-searching gaze, the words I wanted to say stuck in my throat.

I wanted to tell him everything—but the fear of rejection held me back.

I was too timid.

I scolded myself for it, but I just couldn’t take the leap.

...

Time flew by, and soon it was Northfield’s centennial celebration.

The campus was buzzing with excitement. Banners hung from every building, and the air smelled like nostalgia and fresh-cut grass.

As an outstanding alumnus, Ethan was naturally invited.

His name was on every program, and people whispered about him in the hallways.

Returning to campus, the youthful energy was infectious.

I felt lighter, younger—like anything was possible again.

Maybe I’d been too happy lately. When I ran into my old advisor, he kept praising how energetic and radiant I looked.

He grinned, patting my shoulder. “Love suits you, Harper.” I blushed, not daring to correct him.

I nodded along beside him, smiling until my face nearly froze.

My cheeks hurt from all the forced grinning, but I didn’t mind.

Just as everyone was heading to the auditorium for the celebration, my advisor suddenly grinned and said, "By the way, Ethan told me he wants to introduce the girl he likes to me this time. I’ve always wondered—with Ethan’s standards, what kind of girl could he like?"

The words hit me like a punch to the gut. I felt dizzy, the world spinning around me.

Hearing this, I froze, feeling as if thunder was crashing in my heart, louder than that night at Ethan’s house.

All the hope I’d built up crumbled in an instant. I felt hollow.

Ethan actually has someone he likes.

The words echoed in my mind, relentless and cruel.

All these years of secret love for Ethan had gradually blossomed with our recent interactions. I’d even planned to take another step forward after this celebration.

I’d rehearsed my confession a hundred times. Now, it felt pointless.

But at that moment, my advisor’s words were like a needle, bursting the bubble of love I’d built up for Ethan.

I wanted to run, to hide, to disappear.

I suddenly lost all will to keep up this crush.

I barely heard the rest of his words. My mind was a blur.

I don’t even know how I left Northfield, dazed.

I wandered through campus like a ghost, memories flashing by.

Back home, I didn’t even change my shoes, just slid down against the doorframe and squatted there, head buried in my knees.

I let myself fall apart, for once not caring who saw.

At this moment, my mind was full of Ethan.

Every memory, every hope, every fear—I let them wash over me.

The gap I’d tried so hard to bridge, as wide as the Grand Canyon, had clearly split wide open.

I realized just how far apart we really were.

Maybe sensing my sadness, Biscuit, who’d been playing on the balcony, ran over on his short legs, trying to burrow into my arms for a hug and a kiss like always.

He nuzzled my cheek, purring softly, as if to say, “It’s okay, Mom. I’m here.”

Looking at Biscuit’s big round eyes, my mind suddenly cleared.

I wiped my tears, forcing myself to breathe. I had to be strong—for both of us.

Yes, what right do I have to blame Ethan? Just because I like him, because of a love I never confessed, does he have to reciprocate?

I reminded myself that love was a gift, not a bargain.

Ethan doesn’t know I like him. He has every right to like someone else.

He was free, just like I was. I couldn’t hold that against him.

He’s so outstanding—it’s only a matter of time before he gets a girlfriend.

It hurt, but it was the truth.

I hugged Biscuit and took a deep breath.

I let the pain wash over me, then let it go. I wasn’t going to let it ruin me.

If crushing on Ethan taught me anything, it was how to bounce back.

I’d learned to pick myself up, dust myself off, and keep moving forward.

Otherwise, I’d have been driven crazy long ago.

I smiled through the tears, grateful for the lessons—even the hard ones.

Looking up, my gaze fell on the little angel statue. I gave a bitter laugh, then grabbed it and headed straight for St. Jude’s Church.

Maybe it was time to let go. Maybe the little angel needed a break from my endless wishes.

The little angel is so busy—I can’t keep holding him up.

He’d done his best. It was time for me to do mine.

St. Jude’s in the west end was still bustling with visitors.

The air was thick with incense and hope. People came from all over, seeking miracles.

Standing under the ancient oak outside, covered with blessing ribbons, I was lost in thought.

I traced my fingers over the ribbons, feeling the wishes of a hundred strangers.

Ethan’s parents fell in love at first sight at this very church. Every year on their anniversary, they bring Ethan here. I know where their blessing ribbons hang, but I’ve never looked at them, even though mine hangs right beside theirs.

It was my little secret—a silent wish to share in their happiness.

I just wanted to borrow a bit of their luck in love. Hey, if it worked for them, maybe it could rub off on me.

I’d always believed in signs, in fate, in the magic of places like this.

I also want a love at first sight that lasts a lifetime, like Ethan’s parents.

But it seems I don’t have that kind of luck.

Maybe I was meant for a different kind of story.

Maybe all my luck in this life got used up just meeting Ethan. Figures, right?

I closed my eyes, letting the memories wash over me.

My vision blurred with tears.

I tried to blink them away, but they kept coming.

The tears I’d held back all the way finally broke free.

I sobbed, shoulders shaking. No one noticed—everyone was lost in their own prayers.

I couldn’t hold it in anymore and burst into tears.

It felt good to let go, to finally grieve for what might have been.

Maybe too many people have cried at St. Jude’s for anyone to notice me. I almost wanted to raise my hand and say, “Hey, add me to the list!”

After a long time, sniffling and sobbing, I walked forward and took down my blessing ribbon.

My hands trembled as I untied it, the fabric soft and faded.

Before I could even look at it, a shadow completely covered me from behind.

I felt a familiar presence—a warmth that made my heart skip.

Then came that familiar voice.

"Because of you, I broke my promise to my professor for the first time. I was supposed to introduce my girlfriend to him. So, what are you going to do about it?"

His words hung in the air, heavy with meaning. I turned slowly, not daring to believe it.

At this moment, I was still sobbing, my mind clouded with sadness, unable to process what Ethan meant.

It didn’t make sense. Was I dreaming?

And why was he here?

Shouldn’t he be on stage at Northfield’s auditorium, introducing his equally outstanding girlfriend to the professor?

Was I missing something? My brain struggled to catch up.

When I turned to look at him, my vision was blurry, but that didn’t diminish Ethan’s handsomeness. I choked, "Ethan, what did you say? I cried so hard I didn’t hear."

My voice was small, trembling. I was afraid to hope.

...

"Crying so sadly here, aren’t you silly? Aren’t you afraid you’ll disturb the little angel and he’ll cut your red thread?"

His tone was teasing, but his eyes were soft. He brushed a tear from my cheek, his thumb lingering, and for a second I forgot the world existed.

...

This time, I heard what Ethan said and cried even harder.

I broke down completely, tears streaming down my face. I didn’t care how I looked.

Ugh, my red thread was already cut by fate. Or so I thought. Maybe I’d been wrong all along.

Seeing me unable to stop crying, Ethan finally panicked. For the first time, I saw panic in his eyes. The next second, a warm big hand covered my eyes.

He pulled me close, shielding me from the world. I let myself lean into him, feeling safe for the first time in ages.

I was stunned, forgetting that I should push away an Ethan who already had a girlfriend.

But my heart wouldn’t listen to reason. I just wanted to stay in his arms.

No matter how much I love him, I have principles and boundaries.

I reminded myself, but it was hard to care in that moment.

But my hand holding the blessing ribbon wouldn’t obey my brain.

I clung to it, as if it held all my hopes and dreams. Okay, Harper, get a grip—this is not a Hallmark movie.

In my heart, I told myself, Harper, just this once—the last time.

If this was goodbye, I wanted to remember every second.

I thought Ethan was just helping me wipe away my tears and would let go, but instead, he gently pried open my fingers holding the ribbon.

He was gentle, patient. I let him take it.

"I bet you never looked at the words on it."

His voice was soft, almost a whisper.

No need—I hung it myself years ago. I know exactly what it says.

But he insisted, holding it up for both of us to see.

"Harper, let’s look at it together, okay? Hmm?"

His eyes searched mine, waiting for my answer.

...

I admit, I’m useless.

I nodded, unable to speak. My heart was pounding.

I can’t resist a request from Ethan.

I’d have followed him anywhere, in that moment.

So I watched as Ethan took my blessing ribbon and held it up for me to see.

His hands were steady, his touch gentle.

"Harper, look closely."

Ethan’s voice was mesmerizing. I felt hypnotized, my gaze falling on the ribbon.

I blinked, trying to focus. The words swam before my eyes.

Just one look.

I was stunned.

At some point, another line had been added.

[When you loved me, I was loving you too!]

The handwriting was unmistakable—Ethan’s.

That handwriting—I know it anywhere. It was the same as the notes he used to scribble in yearbooks, the same as on the post-its he left for his roommates. My heart nearly burst.

I’ve copied it a hundred times in my study.

I traced the letters with my finger, barely believing it was real.

Tears welled up again, and my mind went blank.

I sobbed, overwhelmed by relief and joy.

After a helpless sigh, that voice, gentle and affectionate, sounded again: "Harper, the little angel at the church is always effective. You’re so sincere—how could he bear to let you down?"

His words wrapped around me like a warm blanket. I felt safe, for the first time in a long time.

What does that mean?

I looked up at him, searching his face for answers.

I was confused. Could it be?

Was this really happening? Did he mean what I thought he meant?

As I expected, Ethan confessed.

He said,

"Harper, I love you. Your love was never unrequited."

The words echoed in my mind, lighting up every dark corner.

From hell to heaven, all it took was one sentence from Ethan.

I laughed through my tears, feeling lighter than air.

Looking at the white-haired, bearded little angel statue in the church, I felt dazed.

I sent up a silent thank-you. Maybe miracles really did happen.

Could it be that the little angel, to meet his quota, briefly tied the red thread between me and Ethan, then cut it?

I giggled, imagining the angel with a clipboard, checking off names.

I had to make sure.

I looked at Ethan, my voice trembling with hope.

Looking at Ethan, my tearful voice was full of grievance.

"Ethan, do you think the little angel’s quota is calculated quarterly or by lifetime?"

He laughed, pulling me close.

"Silly girl."

Ethan laughed and pulled me into his arms.

I melted into him, letting myself believe that maybe, just maybe, happily ever after was possible for us.

I didn’t hold back, hugging Ethan’s waist tightly, letting my tears and snot soak his shirt.

He didn’t seem to mind. I knew, in that moment, I was home.

I’ll be the one washing it from now on anyway.

The thought made me smile through my tears.

The two blessing ribbons hung close together again. Ethan and I, fingers tightly intertwined, walked down the church steps.

We moved as one, our hearts finally in sync.

Behind us, the inscription on the church wall, weathered by a hundred years, was still clear:

"May all lovers in the world find a home; if it’s meant to be, don’t let it slip away."

I read the words, feeling their weight. I squeezed Ethan’s hand tighter.

All the way down the street, we didn’t speak. I looked down at our tightly held hands, my heart soaring with joy.

Some words are meant for a lifetime.

I knew, deep down, that this was just the beginning.

Back at Maple Heights, Ethan pulled me straight into my apartment. Watching him approach step by step, my heart was pounding.

He looked determined, his eyes never leaving mine. I felt a thrill of anticipation—and a little bit of nerves.

Isn’t this too fast?

Shouldn’t we slow down?

I bit my lip, unsure if I was ready for what came next.

I’ve imagined this scene countless times, but that was just a dream. Now that it’s real, I’m a little scared.

But this was Ethan. I trusted him.

Suppressing my tiny hope, I was backed against the wardrobe by Ethan. Seeing his hand about to reach out, I closed my eyes.

I braced myself, heart racing.

"Ethan, don’t..."

I whispered, not sure what I meant.

...

No movement?

I peeked open my eyes and saw Ethan’s upturned lips and his hand—he was just opening my wardrobe.

He grinned, mischief in his eyes. I couldn’t help but laugh.

"Harper, don’t rush."

He winked, making my heart flutter.

...

If there were a crack in the floor, I’d crawl right in. My face turned bright red. Ethan was enjoying this way too much.

I had a vague feeling Ethan’s image was about to collapse.

But I didn’t mind. This was the real him—the one I’d always wanted to know.

"Why are you opening my wardrobe?"

"To help you pack your clothes and move upstairs. We’ll live together," Ethan said matter-of-factly.

His tone was so casual, it took me a second to process.

I froze. The words "live together" immediately filled my mind.

I replayed them, over and over. Was this really happening?

Living with Ethan?

My heart leaped. I tried to play it cool, but I was grinning ear to ear.

I’m afraid I’ll be the first to lose my composure.

But maybe that was okay. Maybe I didn’t have to be perfect.

"Isn’t this too fast? Is it really okay?" I lowered my head, afraid my smile would be too obvious.

I fiddled with the hem of my shirt, waiting for his answer.

"Harper, we’ve already wasted so much time."

His voice was gentle, full of promise.

With that tone and look, before I knew it, I was standing in Ethan’s room.

He led me upstairs, his hand warm in mine. I felt safe, cherished.

Listening to the familiar sound of water from the bathroom, I silently cursed myself.

I paced the room, nerves jangling. Was I ready for this?

Biscuit and Daisy had long since been carried to their bed by Ethan. I couldn’t help but let my mind wander.

I pictured our future—lazy Sunday mornings, movie nights, laughter echoing through the halls.

Just then, the water stopped, and Ethan came out again in just a bath towel.

My heart skipped a beat. He looked so at ease, so… Ethan.

No, my nose felt hot.

I pressed a hand to my face, praying I wouldn’t actually get a nosebleed.

I quickly looked away, afraid I’d get a nosebleed.

I focused on the cats, trying to calm my racing heart.

"Harper, go take a shower."

His voice was low, inviting. I nodded, grabbing my clothes and heading for the bathroom.

...

With those five words, my mind went straight to the gutter—yep, I’m officially a lost cause.

I giggled to myself, feeling giddy.

Gritting my teeth, I grabbed my clothes and headed to the bathroom.

I tried not to trip over my own feet. This was really happening.

Just as I reached the door, thunder rumbled.

The sound made me jump. Old memories bubbled up, unbidden.

That sound...

My clothes slipped to the floor.

I froze, fear tightening my chest.

"Harper, don’t be afraid." Ethan saw my fear and hugged me.

He wrapped his arms around me, holding me close. I let myself sink into him.

Maybe Ethan thought I was scared of thunder, just like that night.

He stroked my hair, whispering soothing words.

Tonight, there was only thunder—no lightning, no rain.

The world felt safe, as long as I was with him.

Ethan comforted me for a long time. Seeing I was still tense and pale, he realized something was wrong. "Harper?"

He cupped my face, searching my eyes.

I pushed down the memories flooding my heart and answered him.

I took a shaky breath, ready to share my truth.

The next second, Ethan bent down and hugged me tightly.

He held me like he’d never let go.

His other hand gently covered my ears.

He shielded me from the storm, both inside and out.

Time passed slowly. In my ears, besides the muffled thunder, I heard Ethan’s heartbeat.

I focused on that steady rhythm, letting it calm me.

I don’t know how long it was before the thunder outside finally stopped.

The silence felt like a blessing.

I looked up from Ethan’s arms. It turned out that those memories I’d tried so hard to forget could be healed.

He kissed my forehead, his touch gentle and warm.

"Ethan."

My voice was choked with emotion.

He brushed a tear from my cheek, his eyes full of love.

Ethan hugged my waist even tighter.

He whispered, "I’m here. Always."

"Mm, I’m here."

Ethan answered. I knew he was waiting for me to continue.

I took a deep breath, ready to share the pain I’d carried for so long.

"Actually, I’ve never had a home. When I was eight, my parents died in a car accident on their way home from a business trip. The truck driver was distracted by thunder."

The words tumbled out, raw and honest. I felt lighter, finally letting go.

These past events, which had weighed on my heart and been hard to talk about, finally found a release.

I wiped my eyes, looking up at Ethan. He held me tighter, his own eyes shining with tears.

I could feel Ethan trembling slightly after I finished.

He kissed my forehead, promising—without words—that he’d always protect me.

Just as I was about to speak, everything went dark, and there was a warm touch on my eyelids.

He pressed a gentle kiss to my eyelids, shielding me from the world.

"Harper, tomorrow let’s go see Mom and Dad, okay?"

His voice was steady, full of love.

"Okay."

That night, I slept soundly in Ethan’s arms.

I dreamed of a home filled with laughter, love, and the soft purring of cats.

...

In front of Mom and Dad, Ethan made his promise solemnly.

He held my hand, looking them in the eye. I knew, in that moment, I was truly part of his family.

Later, I met Ethan’s parents. They were wonderful to me, especially kind. My initial nervousness faded—I knew I would have a home again.

They welcomed me with open arms, making me feel like I belonged.

On the day we got our marriage certificate, Daisy gave birth. With the warm certificate in hand, Ethan and I went to the animal hospital.

We laughed, cried, and took a hundred photos. It was the happiest day of my life.

As I held Biscuit and looked at the litter of kittens Daisy had given birth to, Ethan hugged me from behind, whispering pitifully in my ear,

"Baby, when can I be a dad?"

His voice was playful, full of hope. I couldn’t help but laugh, imagining little ones running around—furred or not.

Hehe.

I’ll do my best!

I turned to kiss him, laughing. “Starting tonight!”

Starting tonight!