Page 123 of A Win-Win Situation
2 YEARS LATER
Two years have passed since Lucas and I renewed our vows—getting married for real this time. Lucas's proposal had been nothing short of magical, a moment that belonged in the pages of a romance novel. He did it during our first vacation together, or what he fondly called our "Delayed Fake Honeymoon," by whisking me away to Lebanon.
The beauty of the country, the richness of its history, and the warmth of its people left an indelible mark on my heart.
Lucas took me to his favorite spots, guiding me through the entire country. Yet, it was our visit to Harissa, his absolute favorite place, that held a moment I'll cherish forever. On the bumpy cable car ride to the top of the mountain, with my heart pounding in both excitement and fear, Lucas went down on one knee and proposed to me again—this time he gifted me his mother’s ring. It’s a gold band adorned with a captivating blue sapphire in the middle with two diamonds hugging it.
I thought I was going to die, not only from the height but from the overwhelming rush of love and joy. In that thrilling,terrifying moment, I knew I'd gladly face anything as long as we were together.
Now, as I prepare for my thirtieth birthday party, I can't help but reflect on the incredible journey that brought me here.
"Happy birthday,Ya Amar," Lucas whispers as he bends down to kiss my lips and I relish in the feel of him.
"Thank you," I whisper against his lips before I bend down so I'm at eye level with our little Antoine, who’s currently the center of our world. "Are you finally going to say your first words? Say, ‘Happy Birthday, Mama.’ Please, just say ‘Mama,’ ‘Mama.’" I playfully urge our one-year-old. He came as a complete surprise, one I cherish more than life itself. We found out I was pregnant during our first Christmas together. Apparently, Lucas knew before I did. I’ve never had a regular period cycle, so I didn’t think about it being late. He mentioned that he noticed my mood changing significantly and that I seemed constantly tired. I remember the moment he gently brought it up, his eyes filled with excitement and a warmth that made my heart swell. He’s an incredible father.
Lucas chuckles at my feeble attempt. "He's already said his first word. You're just upset that the word was 'baba.’"
"I don't recall," I tease, and right on cue, Antoine decides to chime in.
"Baba, baba, baba," he repeats, the little traitor.
When I look back up, I find Lucas with his amused look and a mischievous grin plastered on his face. "You don't recall what, darling?" he asks innocently.
"Okay, you won this one, but just wait, he’ll be a momma’s boy soon enough." This is a long-term game and I’m ready to play it.
As I put the finishing touches on the decorations for the party, I can't help but smile at the anticipation. Sophie, Adeline, and Liam are all flying in. I’ve missed them so much. Liam isback home about every three months, but I haven’t seen Sophie and Addie in a year—not since I gave birth to my little boy, who's brought an even deeper sense of joy and love into our lives. They’re already spoiling him with gifts, making me nervous for what’s to come.
The elevator doors open, and I turn to find Adeline rushing toward me—no scratch that—she rushes by me to greet her favorite nephew.
"Hi, my sweet baby," she coos at him as she takes him from Lucas, showering him with kisses and affection.
Meanwhile, Sophie and Liam walk toward me, but there's something awkward about them as usual—something in the way they exchange glances that makes me curious.
"Happy birthday, beautiful. I've missed you," Sophie says as she hugs me tightly, her voice filled with genuine warmth.
Liam chimes in, "Happy birthday, sister-in-law."
When all of them shift their attention to Antoine, I turn to Lucas and whisper, "Stop hovering. You’re making it obvious."
"I’m not hovering," he whispers back, a proud glint in his eyes.
"Yes, you are. Now stop it."
"We’re telling them today, right?"
His hand moves toward me but I push it away as I walk away, muttering, "So discreet." Lucas follows and when we reach Sophie I look at him and give him the nod, urging him to ask her what we discussed.
"Why are you acting weird?" she asks us.
"We’re not acting weird. Lucas just has a question he would like to ask you. Right, Lucas?"
"Right." Lucas clears his throat before continuing. "I've heard you're a great interior designer, Sophie, and as you might be aware, we're opening up a new hotel in New York." He clears his throat again, and my eagerness takes over. "What he’s tryingto ask you is if you would feel comfortable working on the interior project?"
Sophie blinks, still processing the unexpected offer. Her eyes dart between Lucas and me, as if trying to gauge whether this is some kind of joke. Finally, an infectious smile spreads across her face, transforming it into one of genuine delight.
"Lucas! Leora!" she begins, her voice filled with gratitude, "I can't believe you'd trust me with something this monumental. Of course, I'd be honored to take on this project. You won't regret it."
Lucas and I share a triumphant look. This was a surprise we had been planning for months, and we couldn't have asked for a better reaction. She walks toward Adeline, happy with the news and I lean into Lucas, whispering, "Should we have told her that Liam will be overseeing the new hotel?"
