Luminous Fire

37. Butterflies

I want to hear all of your comments! Enjoy!

-----------------------

Months Later

He is stretched out on the sofa, one leg up and one to the side, one arm over the side, and his other arm resting on his stomach. His shirt is stretched over his taut muscles. His eyes closed. His expression relaxed. What is he thinking or is he asleep? His lips. I hadn't realized I had stopped at the entrance of the living room until he opened his eyes and I found myself staring at him.

"Hi."

"Hi." I respond snapping out of it and moving toward the love seat.

"How was counseling today?"

"It was good. You seem relax." It really was. It was like a weight fell off my shoulders when I shared my experience after months of being in denial. I don't always freeze when someone touches me, but I still struggle with it when someone hugs me unexpectedly.

"Yes, we had a good day. We finished the project."

"That's good. What did you want to do for dinner? I'm picking up the twins in an hour."

"Let's make something. Do you want to help me?" Kyle asks.

"What are we making?"

"Fried fish, mash potato, and a salad."

"Yes."

We head towards the kitchen. Since when do I see him this way? I shake my head when I find myself looking at him again. I am aware of all his movements as we prepare dinner.

***

 "Happy birthday!" I exclaim when I walk into their bedroom.

Angel is the first to open his eyes. When he sees me, he shakes Celestine's shoulder waking her.

"Thank you daddy!" Angel says before giving me a hug.

"You're welcome, monkey." I reply. "Happy seventh birthday to you both."

"Thank you daddy." Celestine states.

"You're welcome, Celly. We have a surprise for you, but you both need to get up and get dressed." I say.

"What is it?"

"Not until you both come to the dining room." I state. "So hurry." I say leaving the bedroom.

"They're awake." I say.

"Breakfast is ready." Ky replies.

"I can't believe they're seven already." Ryan says.

"I can't wait to see them!" Oriel exclaims. "I've missed them and you all."

"We've missed you too." I say. "They'll be happy to see you all here."

"We couldn't miss their birthday party!"

"Thank you for making the trip just for them." I say. They only came for the weekend. They all have to go back tomorrow.

"We wanted to." Alex replies.

"Yes, we had to see them." Katelyn adds.

"And we couldn't pass a chance to see them. They're my favorite twins." Kara says.

"Baby they're the only twins we know." Sara states.

"They're still my favorite."

"How could they not be. They're adorable." Mark adds.

"Yes, I can't wait to see their surprise little faces!" Michael adds.

I smile. Glad that everyone loves them. "They're coming." I say as we hear their footsteps on the wood floor.