Chapter 49

On the drive home, Gabe sang the song four more times. Celina nor Emma could get enough. Emma was singing along from the back seat by the time they pulled into the driveway.

He shut off the Tahoe and turned to Celina while the cab lights were still on. “Can I stay just a minute?”

She nodded. It was late, past Emma’s bedtime, but they could tuck her in and have some time to talk. She wanted to tell him how much she loved the song. She wanted to tell him how much she loved him, but old-seated insecurities twined their roots around her heart.

Gabe got Emma out of her car seat and held her hand as they walked to the door. When Celina had unlocked it, she started flipping on lights. “Okay, missy. To your room. Bath will have to wait till morning.”

Emma grabbed Celina’s hand. “Can Gabe tuck me in too?”

“Sure, but let’s get changed first.” Celina looked up at him with a wink. “We’ll call you when we’re ready.”

“I’ll just wait in here.” Gabe plopped down onto the couch, his long legs sl