Page 39 of Consumed By Fire

Dylan’s surprise didn't go as I’d hoped but he didn't get mad at me, which gives me hope.

I go to the kitchen and start preparing dinner, putting the steaks to flavor. While I wash the salad, I hear Dad and Annais talking in the living room. They’re discussing some novels they see in the library and the scene makes me smile. Dad loves novels.

"Hey, Charlie, you're back!" Annais says, catching me looking at them. "Are you okay?” she asks, looking at my arm. "What happened?"

"Nothing to worry about. A simple scratch,” I say as Grace and David join us. I feel embarrassed. It's so weird to find myself surrounded by my family. Because, after all, that's what they are. At least, I hope that one day they will be.

"This place is really great, Charlie. It makes you feel right at home."

"Thank you, David. That means I did a good job."

"Definitely. Thailand is beautiful. I've always wanted to take Grace there."

"You can say you've been there," I say, winking, triggering their laughter.

Dad joins us and I do the introductions. I leave them in the living room while I go back to the kitchen. I can't stop looking at my wristwatch. I know he'll be home shortly, but I'd like to have him here now.

When I hear the doorbell, I have butterflies in my stomach. I went to open the door and Dylan didn't even give me time to say hello. He picks me up and kisses me.

"I missed you so very much."

"I missed you, too," I say, smiling as he kisses me again. "Dylan, put me down. Our parents are in the living room."

"I don't care. Are you afraid they'll see me kiss the woman I love?"

"No, but…." I try to continue but his mouth covers mine, silencing me. He leaves my lips, looking into my eyes.

"I can't believe you convinced my parents to come here. Unbeknownst to me, even!" he says, putting me down and giving me another kiss.

"I wanted it to be a surprise."

"And it was, baby. This way, everything will be perfect!" He pulls me toward the living room where our parents are talking about hockey.

"Good evening, everyone. Sorry I'm late,” he says. "Paul, Annais, it's a pleasure to have you here!"

"It's nice to be here," Dad says, hugging him.

"I'm going to finish making dinner,” I say, backing away because I'm getting nervous.

"I'll help you," Grace says, coming with me.

I meet Dylan's gaze. He looks at us in surprise and smiles.

"So, tell me a little about yourself," Grace says, sitting down. "Dylan has told us so much about you, and I see how he looks at you."

"How does he look at me?"

"Dylan is in love with you, Charlotte, and you know it."

"Yes, I know. He shows it to me every day. As for me, I'm the one you see, nothing more and nothing less. You've raised a truly fantastic man."

"I'm proud of him, and I'm really glad he's back home,” she says. "After he was injured, we didn't expect him to go back in service and I never wanted him to, but we accepted his choices even though it was tough."

I kneel in front of her and take her hand. "Was he hurt? I didn't know. I can't imagine your fears, but he won't go away, Grace,” I whisper, looking into her eyes.

A tear runs down her face as she nods. "Charlotte, you’re the most beautiful thing that could have happened to him."

"I love him, Grace. I don't know what the future holds for us but I’ll do everything possible to make him happy."