Falling For You [ Ryan Rees - Twin Paranormal ]

39

Three months later ~

Despite his progress, Winter knew he had to confront his past to fully heal. With Ryan by his side, he decided to file a restraining order against Daniel and pursue legal action for the abuse he endured.

The legal process was daunting, but Winter felt empowered by the decision. Knowing that Daniel would face consequences for his actions gave him a sense of closure and justice.

As the time passed, Winter started to find his rhythm again. He spent his days caring for CJ and his nights working on his music. The house was filled with the sweet sound of his guitar as he finally began finishing the song he had started months ago. It was a way for him to process everything he had been through and to look forward to the future.

One evening, as Winter was singing softly, Ryan came in with CJ cradled in his arms. "Hey, she loves it when you sing," Ryan said, sitting down next to Winter.

Winter smiled, watching CJ's eyes flutter open at the sound of the music. "I'm glad. Music has always been a big part of my life. I want it to be the same for her."

Ryan leaned in and kissed Winter's forehead. "She's lucky to have you as her papa."

They sat there together, the room filled with the gentle melodies of Winter's guitar and the soft coos of their daughter. It was in these quiet moments that Winter found the strength to keep moving forward.

Winter nodded, looking at his daughter, who was now trying to grab River's nose with her tiny fingers. "I can't believe she's already three months old. And today, she'll finally be able to hear us properly."

The excitement in Ryan's eyes was evident. "I've been waiting for this day since we found out about her hearing loss. I can't wait for her to hear us say 'I love you' for the first time."

River handed CJ to Winter, who cradled her gently. "She's a fighter, just like her parents," River said with a grin. "And she's going to do amazing with her new hearing aids."

Wyatt then stood up. "Shall we get ready then? The appointment is in an hour, and we don't want to be late."

As they prepared to leave, Ryan couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude. Despite the chaos and challenges, they had found a way to build a life together. He looked at Winter, who was busy packing a bag for CJ filled with nappy's and formula and bottles for while they were out, and felt a rush of love for him and their daughter.

Ryan watched them, his heart swelling with love. "Ready to go, little CJ?" he asked, gently picking her up.

Clarity cooed, her tiny hands reaching for his face. Ryan chuckled, kissing her forehead. "Let's get you hearing the world, baby girl."

The drive to the audiologist's office was filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. CJ babbled in her car seat, her wide eyes taking in the world around her. Ryan drove with one hand on the wheel and the other holding Winter's hand, a silent promise of support and love.

When they arrived, they were greeted by a friendly audiologist who led them into a cozy examination room. She explained the process of fitting CJ with her first hearing aids and what to expect.

Winter held CJ on his lap as the audiologist gently fitted the tiny hearing aids into her ears. Ryan, River, and Wyatt watched anxiously, holding their breath. After a few adjustments, the audiologist smiled and nodded.

"All set. Now, let's see how she reacts."

Ryan knelt in front of CJ, his heart pounding. "Hey there, CJ," he said softly. "Can you hear Daddy?"

CJ's eyes widened, and she turned her head towards Ryan's voice. A slow, wondrous smile spread across her face, and she reached out her tiny hands towards him. Tears filled Ryan's eyes as he leaned in closer.

"I love you, CJ. Daddy loves you so much."

Winter, unable to contain his emotions, kissed CJ's forehead. "We love you, sweetheart. We're so proud of you."

River and Wyatt cheered softly, clapping their hands in joy. It was a moment of pure magic, one that would be etched into their hearts forever.

As they drove back home, the car was filled with a newfound sense of hope and happiness. CJ cooed and giggled, responding to the sounds around her. Ryan held Winter's hand tightly, knowing that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.

~

Back home, they celebrated with a small, impromptu party. Wyatt cooked a delicious dinner, and River decorated the living room with balloons. They took turns holding CJ, marveling at her reactions to the new sounds.

Later that night, after everyone had gone to bed, Ryan and Winter sat on the porch, looking up at the stars. Winter's wings were folded comfortably behind him, and his antler bone headdress glowed faintly in the moonlight.

Ryan took Winter's hand in his, their fingers intertwining. "I know it's been a lot, but I'm so grateful to have you in my life, Winter. You and CJ mean everything to me."

Winter leaned his head on Ryan's shoulder. "I feel the same way. You've given me a second chance at happiness, at a family. And I'll cherish it forever."

They sat in comfortable silence, their hearts full of love and gratitude. The road ahead might still have its challenges, but together, they knew they could overcome anything.

As they watched the stars twinkle above, they made a silent vow to each other and to their daughter—to always love, support, and cherish one another, no matter what life threw their way.