I'm exactly where I want to be

The day started with a surprise. Lucas arrived earlier than usual, holding a small potted plant with bright yellow flowers.

"For your home," he said, handing it to Bella as she opened the door.

Bella's fingers brushed his briefly as she took the plant, her lips curving into a soft smile. "It's beautiful. Thank you."

Rachel, as always, was thrilled to see him. "Mr. Handsome, we are going to the park. Do you want to join us?"

Lucas glanced at Bella, who smiled and nodded. "Sure," he said, looking down at Rachel. "Let's make it an adventure."

At the park, Rachel ran off immediately, her laughter ringing out as she climbed the jungle gym and raced with other kids. Bella and Lucas found a bench nearby, sitting close but not too close, watching her with shared affection.

"She's so full of life," Lucas said, his tone tinged with admiration. "It's amazing to see."

Bella nodded, her gaze soft as she watched her daughter. "She's my everything."

Lucas turned to her, his expression thoughtful. "And you're hers. You're doing an incredible job, Bella. You really are."

Bella looked away, a flicker of vulnerability crossing her face. "It's not always easy. But she makes it worth it." She again looked straight at her daughter with so much gentleness in her eyes.

They sat in companionable silence for a moment before Lucas spoke again. "You've built something beautiful here, Bella. A home. A life. It's... inspiring."

His words caught her off guard. She glanced at him, unsure of what to say. But his gaze was steady, filled with quiet admiration that made her feel seen in a way she hadn't in years.

As the sun began to set, Rachel ran back to them, her cheeks flushed from playing. "Let's go home, Mr. Handsome!" she said, grabbing his hand without hesitation.

Lucas laughed, standing up and offering his other hand to Bella. She hesitated for a moment but then took his hand. For a brief moment, the three of them walked hand-in-hand, and Bella couldn't shake the feeling that this was what a family was supposed to feel like.....natural, warm, and unforced.

When they reached Bella's house, Lucas turned to her. "Thank you for today."

"You don't have to thank me," Bella said, her voice quiet. "You're the one who made it special for her..... and me."

Lucas's eyes met hers, and for a moment, the world seemed to fade away. "I'm exactly where I want to be," he said softly.

Bella's breath hitched at the intensity of his words. As he walked away, she stood in the doorway, watching him until he disappeared down the street.

That night, as she tucked Rachel into bed, Bella couldn't stop thinking about Lucas....about the way he made her feel, the way he made their little world brighter. And for the first time in a long while, she allowed herself to hope. To rely on him.