Page 21 of One Golden Ring

The boys are huddled around the tree, wide-eyed and buzzing with excitement. Kayla is perched on the couch next to Max, both of them holding stockings bigger than they are. And baby Theo is in his playpen, babbling away, completely oblivious to the excitement around him.

“Mama!” Max calls out, his little face beaming. “Did Santa come?”

I kneel down beside him, pressing a kiss to his cheek. “He sure did, sweetheart. You must have been extra good this year.”

Drake winks at me from across the room, his hands full of presents as he starts passing them out. The kids dive in, the sound of wrapping paper, tearing, and delighted squeals filling the room.

I sit back, watching the scene unfold, my heart bursting with gratitude. This is the life my Gran wanted for me. A house full of love, laughter, and family.

As the kids continue unwrapping gifts, Drake comes over and settles next to me on the couch, pulling me close. “You okay?” he asks softly, brushing a stray curl behind my ear.

I nod, leaning my head on his shoulder. “I’m more than okay. I’m perfect.”

He smiles, pressing a kiss to my forehead. “I never thought I could have this,” he murmurs. “A real Christmas. A real family. And you… you made it all possible.”

Tears prick at my eyes, but they’re happy tears. “We made it possible together. This is our family, Drake. Our forever.”

He nods, his eyes filled with the same wonder I see every time he looks at me. Even after all these years, the love between us hasn’t faded. It’s only grown stronger.

“Mama! Daddy! Look at this!” Ella tugs at my arm, holding up a brand-new baby doll. “She has hair the same color as me. And a pacifier, too, look!”

“It’s beautiful, sweetheart,” I say, pulling her onto my lap.

Drake catches my eye, and I know we’re both thinking the same thing.

This is it. This is everything we’ve ever wanted. And more.