Page 54 of Fly

“You love Mikko?” I asked quietly.

“I do.”

“Okay then.” I stood and opened the door, waited until Mikko was inside, then extended a hand. He took it without hesitation, his grip firm and steady. “For what it’s worth,” I said quietly, holding his gaze, “thank you for bringing her here to see me. And for making her happy.”

His lips curved, just a little. “She deserves everything,” he said.

I nodded once. “She does.” I tightened my grip a fraction, just long enough to make the point land. “And she’s my mother.”

Mikko didn’t flinch. If anything, his expression softened. “I know,” he said simply.

That was enough. I let go, stepped back, and for the first time since the door had opened, my chest loosened.

“Stay here, I'm getting a shower, okay? Then…” I went to a crouch again and hugged her hard. “There's someone I want you to meet.”

The limo was absurdly luxurious, all leather and quiet space, as if the world had decided to be gentle for once. Mom smiled the whole ride, her hand tucked into Mikko’s, and he watched her as if she were the only person there. Attentive. In love. Something inside me eased, a knot, constant weight lifting just enough for me to breathe.

When we pulled up outside Cam’s place, I punched in the gate code without thinking, muscle memory taking over. The drive curved up through the trees, familiar and safe.

Mom leaned on her stick when she got out, the other arm linked through Mikko’s, and together they managed the few steps to the front door. I unlocked it and ushered them inside.

“Cam?” I called.

There was a pause, then his voice floated down the hall. “Clothes off, babe! You still owe me a blowjob!”

I winced. “Cam⁠—”

He sauntered around the corner, loose shorts slung low on his hips, confidence intact right up until the second he clocked the strangers in his hallway.

He stopped dead.

We all just stared at each other.

Then my mother laughed. Full-bodied, delighted laughter, as if she’d just been handed the best punchline of her life.

“Uh, Jari?” Cam asked faintly.

“Mom,” I said, heat flooding my face as I stepped close to Cam and laced my fingers with him. “This is my Cam. And, Cam? This is my beautiful mom.”

Cam blinked once, then recovered with speed. He straightened and nodded politely. “I usually make a better first impression, ma'am. With pants.”

Mikko’s mouth twitched.

My mother was still smiling. “I like him,” she declared.

Cam glanced at me, eyebrows lifting. “Your mother is here,” he murmured.

“She is,” I agreed.

“And I'm not wearing anything.”

I couldn't help the snort that left my mouth. “You have shorts.”

Cam straightened and then stepped closer to my mom, who tugged him close for a sideways hug.

“I'm Cam,” he said unnecessarily as they hugged. “Very nice to meet you, ma'am. I swear I own clothes.”

Mom grinned at him. “Best first meeting ever. Call me Abigail.”