chapter 40

Kurtis POV

The next morning, I woke up before the sun, excitement bubbling inside me. Lyra was still asleep, her head resting on my chest, her body curled into mine. I smiled, brushing a strand of hair away from her face, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction knowing what was about to happen.

I slipped out of bed carefully, not wanting to wake her, and headed downstairs. My phone buzzed with a message from James.

**James:** "The car’s out front, bro. Everything’s perfect. Good luck!"

I peeked out the window, and there it was, sleek, midnight blue, with a massive red ribbon tied around the hood. It looked even better than I imagined.

I could hardly wait to see Lyra’s reaction.

I went back upstairs, gently waking her up with a kiss. “Morning, baby girl,” I whispered against her lips, my voice thick with anticipation.

She stirred, her eyes fluttering open as she smiled up at me. “Mmm, morning,” she murmured, snuggling closer.

“I’ve got something to show you,” I said, my excitement barely