F (39), never married, had almost settled with “maybe love’s not for me.” Visited my parents, and as usual, Dad’s firing up the grill with his coworkers around. My plan—snag some food and leave quietly. He interrupts with “Amber, meet Steve.” Steady, calm eyes. A natural smile. My chest jumps like I’m seventeen again.I go for nonchalant and miss completely. My car stops working as I’m ready to leave. Naturally. Steve shows up, sleeves up, and fixes it fast. My thanks is met with, “Dinner? Call it even.” I agree without hesitation.It all happens quickly—quiet, sure, honest. In six months: private wedding. His hands shake at “I do.” I realize this might be what feeling secure is.Wedding night. We step into our place—boxes still packed, a jacket lying around, soft evening peace. I wash up, playful comment ready.He’s perched on the edge of the bed, talking quietly.No phone. No headphones.”I wanted you to see this, Stace. Today was perfect. I wish you could’ve been here.”
Amber had given up on love but sparks fly when she meets her father’s old friend, Steve, at a BBQ. As their whirlwind romance leads […]
