Page 163 of Angel

She was protecting our privacy while making it crystal clear to her family that she had my six.

Absolved of my sins, I let out an exhale.

‘Right, you’re both staying for lunch. Nobody argues with the chef.’

Elsa and Ed exchanged amused glances and nodded.

They settled around the dining table with Roxy, as I whipped up a spread of grilled chicken club sandwiches on thick sourdough, loaded with crispy bacon, melted Swiss, and avocado slices.

For Ed and Elsa, I mixed up celebratory gin fizzes.

For Roxy and me, I shook up a mocktail using fresh lime, mint, and ginger beer.

‘Why aren’t you having the real stuff, Angel?’ Ed asked, taking a huge bite of his sandwich.

‘I’m keeping it dry,’ I said, winking across the table at Roxy. ‘No drinking in solidarity with my wife. Can’t let her suffer through this phase alone.’

‘Look at you, being a softie,’ Ed teased, his booming laugh echoing through the kitchen.

We ate and chatted, catching up on life and family for another hour.

After lunch, I walked out with my arm encircling my wife as we escorted her mum and uncle outside into the bright afternoon sun.

Ed climbed into the driver’s seat of his black Mercedes SUV, leaving Elsa on the gravel driveway to say her final goodbyes.

She hugged her daughter and whispered into her ear.

Then she turned to embrace me, standing on her tiptoes to whisper into my ear.

‘I’m happy you chose Roxy, honey,’ Elsa whispered, her tone fierce and maternal. ‘It took you a while to show up to the party, but I always hoped she would be your girl. Make her happy, or I’ll kick you in the arse, ratbag.’

I let out a loud chuckle in surprise.

‘Ma’am, I’m scared of you now.’

‘You will be if you’re ever a beast to my daughter,’ she smirked, tapping my cheek.

We shared a genuine laugh as she settled into the passenger seat.

I closed the door for her, and the SUV soon rolled down the long, dusty driveway.

I wandered back to the porch where Roxy stood, her stunning face lit up by the warm, golden rays of the sunset.

‘Your mum is way happier since leaving Reese,’ I rasped, wrapping an arm around her waist and pulling her to my side. ‘I like this version of her.’

‘You don’t know the half of it,’ Roxy chuckled, leaning her head on my shoulder. ‘Behind her genteel mask lies a wily mind, a wicked tongue, and a heart of pure gold. I can’t wait to see how she shines after coming out from under my father’s shadow.’

ROXY

Since my mum and Uncle Ed’s visit, the disquiet between Angel and me eased.

He was more attentive and devoted than ever.

He pressed more quick kisses to my temple, hugged me often, and showed his affection.

I allowed the touches, but I never reciprocated.

I just wasn’t there yet.