Page 176 of Fame & Rhythm

Dad walks in, smiling. “You ready to go, baby?”

I grin at the term ‘baby.’ They’re still so in love, and it’s kind of perfect.

“Sure am, Rock God,” Mum says, glancing back at me with a wink.

We head toward the front door as the rest of the 12GAUGE-Slayed crew and their partners gather.

“Have fun, guys,” I say, and they all smile, especially Anna, Aston’s mum, who looks more than happy to see me back where I belong.

“Chad, keep an eye on Carter and Carlton. They think they know everything,” Sia calls out.

The twins poke their heads out from the lounge room and shake their heads in perfect sync.

“Mum, we do know everything,” Carlton says, and everyone laughs.

“Exactly what I’m afraid of,” Sia mutters, making Dingo chuckle.

“Relax. They’ll be fine with the older kids,” Dingo says, then looks at me. “You’ll keep them in line, won’t you, Annie?”

“Of course. We’ll put them to work… dishes, cleanup. Teach them early,” I reply, deadpan.

Sia freezes slightly, and Mum laughs. “She’s joking.”

“Well… mostly,” I add with a grin, and that earns another round of laughter.

“Look after everyone, okay?” Sia says, still a little hesitant.

“I will. Don’t worry.”

I get it, though. She’s always been protective. After everything she went through to have her kids, it makes sense.

“All right, go on,” I say, waving them out. “Your stretch Hummer’s waiting. You all look amazing.”

They head out, still chatting and laughing.

Mum lingers, pulling me into one last hug. “I love you, Annie. And remember—”

“Be safe. I know,” I say gently. “Go enjoy yourself.”

She smiles, nods, and finally heads out.

I call the dogs back inside and close the door behind me.

Aston crosses the room and pulls me into his arms. “They all get off okay?”

“Yeah, they’re gone.”

“Good,” he murmurs, a grin tugging at his lips. “Now I can kiss you all night without worrying about your dad murdering me.”

I raise an eyebrow. “He wouldn’t actually do that… would he?”

Aston chuckles softly. “No, he’s harmless. I just respect him. But now…” His grip tightens slightly. “Now I plan to take full advantage.” He dips me back and kisses me, slow and deep. I laugh softly against his lips before kissing him back as he pulls me upright again.

“I love you,” I whisper.

“I could hear that all day and never get sick of it,” he says.

“Same.”