𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐃𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐀𝐑𝐓

40

                                ᴏɴɪᴋᴀ ᴍᴀʀᴀᴊ

I carefully wrapped the last box, finishing it off with a red satin ribbon. China was sprawled out on the floor with her legs crossed, sipping on her iced coffee, while Rylee sat up against the couch, neatly stacking the gifts she had finished.

"So, what'd you end up getting him?" Rylee asked, peering at me with curiosity.

I smirked, pulling the last gift into my lap. "Well, I tried to make it thoughtful since I know he doesn't need anything. I got him some customized things... a leather duffle bag with his initials on it, a cologne set that I know he likes, and a new watch—nothing flashy, but it's engraved."

"What's the engraving say?" China piped up, sitting straighter with interest.

"It says, 'To the man who gave me peace when I didn't know I needed it.'" I spoke softly, my fingers grazing the edge of the wrapped gift.

Both of them went quiet for a second before China let out a dramatic groan. "Oh my god, Onika! That's so sweet, I might actually cry."

Rylee smiled warmly. "It's perfect. You don't even have to overdo it for someone like him—just hearing that from you will mean everything."

I shrugged, my heart feeling full as I thought about how he'd react. "I just wanted to show him how much I see him, you know? He doesn't ask for anything, and I think that's why I want to give him so much more."

China nodded, grinning. "I think that's why y'all balance each other out so well. You make each other better. And don't get me wrong, he spoils the hell out of you, so it's nice seeing you put this much thought into him too."

"Exactly," Rylee chimed in. "You deserve to be spoiled, but you're showing him that you appreciate him too. That's what really matters."

"Yeah... I just want him to know how much he's changed my life. After Kevin... I didn't know if I could trust anyone like this again."

"You're in a whole different place now, Nika," Rylee said softly. "You're not the same person you were with Kevin. And Aubrey... he sees that, and he helps you be this version of yourself."

China pointed a finger at me with a teasing smile. "Plus, girl, you glowing! That man is treating you right."

Aubrey had done more than just give me material things, he'd given me a sense of safety I thought I'd never find again.

"That's why I'm doing this," I said finally, wrapping my arms around my knees. "I want to make this Christmas special for him too. He deserves that."

China grinned, pulling another roll of wrapping paper out. "Well, let me help you make sure these gifts look perfect. You know you gotta outdo yourself when you're dealing with someone like him."