Beyond: Beyond the Lights

Chapter 28

JAMES

It's been a few days since Christmas, and I'm still replaying the moment I told Madi I loved her over and over in my head. I hadn't planned it, hadn't thought it through the way I usually do with big things. It just came out because it felt right. And the way she looked at me after? Like she'd been waiting to hear those words—I'll never forget that.

I've never felt so certain about anything in my life.

The holidays have been this perfect mix of chaos and calm. Between Maria's excitement over her new toys, Kian's non-stop joking about how I've gone "full-on family man," and spending more time with my parents than I have in a while, it's been good. Better than good.
But now that things are settling down, reality is creeping back in. School and practice are starting back up soon, and while I'm excited to get back into the routine, I'm also nervous about how this new phase with Madi fits in. Everything has changed, and I don't want to lose the momentum we've built.

This morning, as I sit in the kitchen with a cup of coffee, I hear the familiar sound of Maria's feet padding across the floor. She appears in the doorway, her hair a mess of curls, still half-asleep.

"Morning, sweetheart," I say, holding my arms out. She climbs into my lap without a word, resting her head against my chest.

"Is Madi coming today?" she asks, her voice muffled by my shirt.

I smile, ruffling her hair. "Not today, kiddo. But maybe tomorrow."

"Good," she murmurs. "I like it when she's here."

I feel a warmth spread through me at her words. Maria's taken to Madi faster than I could've hoped. The way they bond—it's something I never thought I'd see. And I know it's a good sign. Madi fits into our lives so naturally, like she was always meant to be here.

Just as I'm thinking about how lucky I am, my phone buzzes on the counter. It's Madi.

Madi: Morning! How's my favorite duo doing? 😊

Jamie: We're good. Maria asked if you're coming over today. You've officially won her over.

Madi: Aww, that makes my heart so happy. I miss her. And you too, obviously 😉

Jamie: We miss you too. You should come over tomorrow. We can make dinner together?

Madi: That sounds perfect. I'm in.

I can't help but smile at her response. Things feel easy with Madi—effortless, in a way that's both comforting and terrifying. It's like we're building something, day by day, without even trying. And it scares me because it's real. This is what I want.

Later that day, I drop Maria off at my parents' house. They've been amazing, especially since everything happened with Maria's mom. They've always stepped in when I needed them, and now, it's more about them spending time with their granddaughter. She loves going over there, and I know she's in good hands.

"Jamie," my dad says as I'm about to leave, "you've been looking happier lately. That's got something to do with that girl, right?"

I pause, turning back to him with a smile. "Yeah, Dad. Madi's... she's special."

"She seems like it," my mom chimes in from the kitchen. "We really like her. Maria talks about her constantly."

"She's been great with Maria," I say, leaning against the doorframe. "And with me too."

"Doesn't surprise me," my dad replies. "You're building something good here, Jamie. Just make sure you don't overthink it. Trust yourself."

I nod, knowing he's right. I've always been the one to second-guess things, but with Madi, it's different. There's no overthinking. Just... feeling.