AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Finley
As I stand behind our bake sale table, my hand rests on my rounded belly, a gentle reminder of the life growing within me.
Amber points at the frosted cupcakes and intricately decorated cookies, her eyes sparkling with joy.
“My mommy and I made these together!” Amber's voice rings out across the bustling school courtyard.
My heart swells with pride as Amber enthusiastically shows off the treats we made together to her new classmates.
“Amber, these lemon bars are amazing!” A teacher I recognize gushes as she reaches for another from the tray. “You and your daughter must have spent hours in the kitchen.”
The teacher takes a bite, rolling her eyes with pleasure.
I beam with pride. When people assume Amber is my biological daughter, I don't correct them. I’m here for Amber.
“Thank you. Amber's a natural. She has a gift.”
Amber grins, her blue eyes twinkling. I tenderly smooth a hand over her hair, marveling at how much she's grown in the short time I've known her.
As the bake sale winds down, I pack up the empty containers, grateful that I won't need to carry extra weight to the car at eight months pregnant. But it's a small price to pay for the joy this child and Amber bring me.
Suddenly, I hear Amber's delighted squeal and look up to see Jake striding purposefully towards us. He cuts across the schoolyard, his eyes locked on us, a broad smile lighting up his handsome face.
Amber sprints until she reaches Jake, giggling as she launches at him. Jake twirls her in a circle, then gently sets Amber down.
“Was it a good day?” Jake asks, drawing me into his embrace and wrapping his strong arms around me and our unborn baby.
“It was a huge success thanks to Miss Master Baker.” I wink at Amber, who giggles, her face flushed with excitement.
“Is that so?” Jake grins at his daughter, pride resonating in his voice. “Did you sell all the goodies you and Finley made?”
Amber's cheeks are glowing with excitement. “Every last one, Daddy! Everyone loved them, especially the chocolate chip cookies. Mrs. Thompson even asked for the recipe!”
“Of course they did, sweetie. You made them with love,” I say.
I shift my weight, trying to ease the ache in my lower back. Despite the discomfort, a profound sense of happiness envelops me. Tears prick my eyes, a byproduct of all the hormones.
Jake's hand settles on the swell of my stomach, his touch gentle and reverent. “I'm proud of you both,” he says, his eyes shining with love.
Jake kisses Amber's head before claiming my lips in a tender kiss. I feel complete, surrounded by the two people I love most and the promise of our future nestled beneath my heart.
Jake helps me load the empty baking trays into his truck, his muscles rippling under his fitted t-shirt. It's a sight I never tire of. He catches me staring and grins.
As we climb into the car, Jake's hand finds mine, his thumb tracing soothing circles on my skin. I lean back in my seat, my hand resting on my swollen belly. The baby kicks as if sensing my contentment.
Amber's voice fills the small space as she recounts every detail of the day to her dad. He listens intently, asking questions and laughing at her animated expressions.
“Mrs. Johnson said my cupcakes were the best she's ever tasted!”
“Of course they were,” Jake says, catching my eye with a wink. “You learned from the best.”
It's hard to believe this incredible man chose me, loves me, and wants to build a life together.
As we navigate the familiar streets of our small town, Amber pipes up from the backseat. “Daddy, is everything ready for the surprise?”
My eyebrows arch, and I turn to look at Jake. He chuckles, meeting Amber's gaze in the rearview mirror. “It's a secret, remember?” he says, putting his finger to his lips and winking.
Amber giggles, covering her mouth with her hand. “Oops! I forgot!”
