Us Against the World (Dartin Fanfic)

CHAPTER 23

Dakota's POV
October 5th, 2019

- My Coqui is thirty. I can't believe it - My mom brings me into a really tight hug. Oh no! here we go again. I thought she had let it all out last night after the super emotional speech she gave during dinner. I pat her on the back trying to calm her down. Stella is standing behind her and she is trying to hold her laughter. I look at my sister and roll my eyes -

- Mama. I am turning thirty not dying. Are you trying to make me depressed about getting older? - I ask amused but exasperated

Get it together! I tell Melanie while laughing and Stella rapidly intervenes to take our mother inside and away from me. I've noticed Moses had been hanging out by himself near us while we were talking. I walk towards him and place my arm around his shoulders. He looks up at me with the sweetest smile.

- What's up, dude? Aren't you joining the party?

- I was waiting 'cause I have something for you - he puts his hand inside the pocket of the black jacket he is wearing and gets a keychain out of it. He shows it to me holding it with his hand - I told my parents about giving you a birthday present and they wanted to give me money to get you something but I wanted it to be special so instead, I made this myself - he shyly laughs and I am completely melted by what he's saying. I am in love with this kid's pure heart. He is just like his dad. Thoughtful, caring and kindhearted - I am sure you won't get anything like this - he hands me the keychain and I take a close look at it. It is made of cording, assorted beads and air-dry clay which has a phrased stamped on it - It says 'you're the coolest' - Moses explains - because I really think you are - Aw! I wrap my arms around him and he hugs me back tightly -

- This is the best gift anybody has given me so far - I say with a soft voice. I step back and look at him - Don't tell your dad or sister though - he laughs timidly looking very pleased with himself - Let's rock this party! Shall we?

I hop on my feet in the silliest way making Moses giggle while I keep my arm around his shoulders and he grabs me by the waist. He lets me go so we can comfortably walk holding hands instead. I have been dying to join the party because I have been listening to Led Zeppelin songs since I got here. To my surprise music is being performed live by a tribute band who are on stage playing Whole Lotta Love. They're fucking good! I start wiggling while walking around saying hi to everyone and looking for my other half who I have lost sight of since we got out of the car earlier. I haven't let go Moses' hand I squeeze so he pays attention to me.

- Where's your dad? Do you see him? - I enquire and Moses studies the place and rapidly points out. I look in that direction and see Chris walking away from the Airstream that has been set up as a bar. He seems... distressed. What's wrong? I frown and look at my stepson - I'm going to get your dad. are you going to be fine, sweetie?

Moses nods and I go to meet with Chris. I am stopped on my way to get him a few times by guests who want to say happy birthday. I'm happy to see people I haven't seen for a long time here. Chris doesn't notice I am beside him until I put my hand on his back and talk with a sweet tone on my voice

- Is everything okay? - I ask and he turns to stare at me. His face lighted up immediately with a smile -

- Yes, baby - he places his hand on my hip and pulls me closer to his side. He leans and kisses me on the head -

- Are you sure? It looked like you were upset

- I was upset because I was missing you and needing your attention - he gives me a peck on the lips and runs his hand from my hip to my butt trying to distract me. I raise an eyebrow at him letting him know that won't be working - Are we going to enjoy the party or stand here all night while you look at me with that threatening but really sexy expression on your 30-year-old face?