Chapter 40

Ava's POV

The last few weeks became a pattern. Work, home and my mother's house was a daily ritual that I've grown to love. Things at R.P were going beautifully. I was assigned to a new author, Alex, who needed help on a sequel to her first book. Alex was tenacious to say in the least. While I'm not accustomed to someone so intense, I love how she continues to surprise and present me with new challenges. Operating as a full-time editor while still assisting Caleb was a lot more challenging than I expected. However, with all of the extra money coming in I don't regret it. I love my job. Outside of work, my social life wasn't completely dull. Royce and I have been working on patching up our relationship and finally talking about seeking counseling. We agreed that we wanted to fight for our relationship, and I was ecstatic about that. When I wasn't with the girls or spending time with Royce, I was with my mother planning her wedding. Julia, Cat and I have devoted these few weeks into planning the best backyard wedding for my mother, especially since she wanted me to be the one to marry her and Joey. So, while planning her wedding I was able to become a wedding officiant, which was easy. I loved those moments to be able to bond with my friends and my mom while we arranged the perfect fall wedding right in time for Thanksgiving. Through and through, life has been good, there is however one slight hitch, Mason. Mason has been acting strange towards me for a while now and I'm beginning to wonder if I did something to offend him. He has barely talked to me since I opened the can of worms on the beach. It was Caleb who filled me in on the family's fiasco. I was given a detailed recount of what occurred at the family's home that night, while Mason seemed to be avoiding me at all costs. He calls to speak to the girls and only the girls, if he comes down to Vancouver to visit them, he only takes them out alone. While I'm glad that he is at a point where he can just pick the girls up and be with them, there's a part of me that missed those days when we all went out to do little activities together. Royce is thrilled to see the distance, but I can't help feeling a little sour. I know it's selfish, but I can't shake the feeling that he's upset with me. I plan to approach him if his distant behavior continues. It was Sunday afternoon when I made my way to Seattle to pick up the girls. They spent the weekend at Mason’s, and they were exuberant, of course so was I. It gave me a little break and time to focus on my work. Mason had his own work to attend to since he basically cut ties with his father, luckily Marie was still staying with him and was able to keep the girls entertained. Mason and I arranged for the girls to be with him for two weekends every month and so far, despite his distance with me, our coparenting has been successful. It was nearly two pm when I pulled up in front of his home. Normally I'd let him bring the girls home on Monday’s, but my mom's wedding is tomorrow, and the ladies are having a mini spa day before the big event. Mason gave me my own key to his home a while ago, but this was my first time using it. The house was quiet when I entered it and I quickly made my way to the kitchen after hearing a soft clutter. Mason was standing by the countertop making sandwiches with a gentle smile on his face. He was wearing dark wash jeans with a long-sleeved grey turtleneck shirt. He didn't notice my entrance, so I took a moment and leaned against the wall watching him assemble the girl's lunch I assumed. I know that his distance with me shouldn't bother me as much as it should, but I can't seem to help it. Probably sensing my stare, his green eyes locked with my blue ones and for a second, we were silent. He looked startled, yet in awe, leaving me curious as to what he was thinking about.

"Hi." I broke the silence. "Hey."

"What are you up to?" I asked awkwardly.

He stared at the knife in his hand blankly for a moment. "Oh um, making lunch for the girls. They're outside with my mom. She's painting with them to keep them occupied."

That was the most words he said to me in weeks and my heart ached. Before I could respond, Marie entered through the glass doors wearing loose pants and a t-shirt. She was covered in paint and it was the most casual I've ever seen her. "Oh, hello Ava." She smiled.

"Hi Marie, how are you?"

"I'm lovely darling. The girls and I were painting on the lawn. Lovely weather today, a little chilly but still nice."

I smiled, "It is."

"So, Amy's big day is tomorrow, I'm sure she's bursting with anticipation." She winked.

I nodded. "Yes, she's a complete ball of nerves right now."

"Oh, I know. I'm sorry I won't be able to make it though. I wished I could reschedule my event."

I waved her off knowing that my mom was already okay with it. "I remember how I was the day before my wedding day. It was a lovely day."

A dazed look took over her face and she sighed gently. Mason too looked a little forlorn.

"Well let's check on the girls." She grinned.

I frowned, noting how fast her emotions seemed to change. We headed outside together, and I smiled watching the girls painting in their little aprons. They looked so focused on their work as they sat on their little chairs in the grass. "Where did you find such cute little easels?" I asked.

"I had them made just for them, it's even adjustable." Mason said proudly and I nodded in approval.

Peppa spotted me first. She dropped her brush and dashed over to me. "Momma!" She yelled as I grabbed her.

Lily soon followed suit running into my arms also. They babbled for three minutes straight about what they did with their Nana Ann and daddy. I smiled happily and listened enthusiastically, making sure to wow and ooo when necessary.

"Girls, daddy made you lunch." Marie said.

Mason led the girls to a tiny patio table and chairs that were identical to the one we sat at to eat. I lifted a brow in surprise at the detail and Marie chuckled under her breath.

"Yea he tends to go overboard sometimes. Like father like son I suppose."

I looked over to her noting the same dazed look again. "Are you okay?" I asked.

She looked towards me with a sad smile and nodded. I gave her an incredulous look and she chuckled.

"I will be." She murmured.

"Have you spoken to him since then?"

She nodded, "He calls me every day but it's only for a few moments. I haven't seen him since that horrid night though." She stared at the girls while they ate and frowned slightly.

"You miss him."

"I won't allow him to drive my children and grandchildren away from me."

She never took her eyes off Mason and the girls. "I know, but it's okay to miss him and want to be with him."

"I don't want to be with that Charles, I want my old Charles, the one I fell in love with when I was nineteen years old."

"What was he like?" Marie smiled before looking at me.

"He was much like Mason is now, determined, loyal, persuasive. He worked so hard to always stay at the top and make his parents proud. When he's passionate about something he doesn't relents and he was passionate about three things, me, success and not becoming like his father."

"What was his father like?"

"Believe or not, worse than Charles is now. The man was made of stone. I remember wondering if he was even human because his emotions were non-existent, not for his wife or his children. He didn't believe in failure, so once you don't succeed, you must leave."

She mumbled looking away again. "That's horrible." I couldn't imagine what Mason would be like if his father was that way.

"Yes, it was. Charles never wanted to be like him. So, he worked hard to make a name for himself so his father wouldn't ever have leverage over him." Her eyes locked onto mines.

"That's why we were barely there for them growing up. We worked so hard and attended so many events to help the family name thrive. I had no idea the damage being done until it was too late. There were moments I felt horrible about their tedious schedules that Charles insisted on and gave them moments of play, so they'd know that we loved them. Even after all of that, he became his father anyway."

"Why didn't you ever stand up for them against Charles?" I asked before I could stop myself.

I covered my mouth quickly, "Oh, I'm sorry." Marie shook her head instantly.

"No, it's a valid question and you have every right to ask it. I was raised to be docile, submissive, to always stay by my husband's side and agreeable. I was primed and groomed by my mother from before I could walk, and she thrived on social statuses and money. She was enthused when I married into the Reynolds family and I felt like so many people were counting on me to be the perfect wife. I am ashamed to say it got out of hand. I was so caught up in the things of this world, I forgot what's really important." She smiled and looked towards the girls and Mason once again.

This time though, Mason stared back with a small smile on his face, understanding. "But you do still love him, don't you?"

"I will always love Charles, but if he refuses to see the error in his actions and make a change, I won't go back to the way things were, I can't." Her tone was final.

I couldn't agree more. I looked over to Mason and realized he was staring at me. He quickly averted his gaze back to the girls, and I frowned. The girls were done eating when Marie stood up to go to their side.

"Come on girls, let's get your things and get you all cleaned up before you leave." She cooed.

The girls took her hands eagerly and followed her inside the house. The patio was silent when the door closed, and I was instantly uncomfortable. I looked towards Mason as he gazed over the yard and pool feigning nonchalance, but I knew better. The air was charged with nervous energy and I didn't like it. One of Mason's many talents was calming down a room. It was nearly impossible to feel uneasy around him. So why do I feel this way now? Whatever the reason I couldn't ignore it any longer. Swallowing every ounce of my pride, I turned to face him. "Are you alright?" Mason looked towards me slightly startled as if he forgot I was sitting right here.

"Yea I'm alright."

"Are you sure?" He nodded before turning his head back to the view. I took a deep breath before making another attempt.

"Are you still coming to the wedding?" Though I already knew the answer. He nodded.

"Well we'll need your help with a few last minute things if you don't mind. You'd have to be there a little early." Once again, he nodded.

At that moment all my nervous energy went out my window. "Mason." I called out.

I gained his full attention this time. "What is the problem? Did I do something to you?"

He looked at me confused, "What are you.."

"I'm not crazy Mason. I know there's something wrong with you. You haven't held a full conversation with me in weeks. You're avoiding me, keeping this annoying distance when you see me, I just want to know what's wrong?" I pleaded.

"You have been like my best friend for months and all of sudden it's like I disgust you." His eyes softened instantly, and guilt took over his features.

"No Ava."

"Is it Chasity? Does she want you to stay away from me cause if that's the case then I understand. I don't want to complicate things for you two. You've never had a problem being open and honest with me, so why can't you do it now?" He stared at me with sorrowful eyes.

After a moment, a look of resolve came over his face and he stood up to approach me. I tilted my head back when he stood in front of me and extended his hand. "Come take a walk with me."

I placed my hand gently into his, relishing in the familiar touch that I missed so much. I silently scolded my body's reaction and allowed him to pull me off of the wide patio. We walked hand in hand in the yard, passing the pool and the pool house before Mason slowed.

"You're right." He started. "I hadn't realized my actions would've caused you so much discomfort. I was trying not to complicate things."

"Because of Chasity?"

"No because of you and Royce. You're happy and I don't want to get in the middle of that." He paused for a moment before sighing. "Chasity and I broke up."

My steps flattered as I came to a sudden stop, shocked. "What? Oh my God, are you okay? Why didn't you tell me? Is that why you were acting this way? When did this happen?"

Mason smiled gently before tugging me to a slow walk once again. "I'm okay Ava, trust me. I didn't tell anyone beside my family, it's not exactly public news yet, thankfully. We broke up the night I approached my father and I don't regret it."

Caleb kept this part of the story to himself. I had no clue. "But what about the business deal?"

"Cancelled. The deal was dismissed after I ended it with her, as I knew it would. It was another reason my father was upset."

"He hasn't spoken to you since?"

"No and I don't want him to. My focus has been working on my business in every aspect. If it has nothing to do with the girls or work, I pretty much shut it out and I'm sorry for that."

"God no, I'm sorry. I had no idea you were dealing with all of this all at once. It's no wonder you were so out of it. I thought I offended you because you avoided me like a disease."

Mason frowned slightly, "I really am sorry about that, I knew I should've told you. It was all too much too fast. I don't want you to think that I didn't want you around, it was the opposite. Another reason I was being so distant was because I knew that Royce wouldn't be thrilled if he knew I was now on the market."

I shook my head instantly although a part of me understood his need to exercise caution with me. "Royce knows you're not a threat to him, Mason. It hasn't been that way between him and I for a while now." He nodded slowly to himself.

"Well, if I'm being honest, I must admit that I am a threat to him." I paused.

My heart stuttered in my chest instantly before spiking to an alarming rate. I tilted my head back to read the expression on his face, wondering if he was serious or not. There was no trace of humor in his eyes as he stared back intently, gauging my reaction. I chuckled nervously before coming to a complete stop.

"Very funny." I rolled my eyes playfully.

Mason faced me fully and gave me a curious look. His gaze was intense. "I'm not joking." He whispered.

I couldn't help the sudden shutter up my spine. "Mason."

"I've been trying so hard to keep this at bay but I can't anymore, I'm failing."

"Keeping what at bay?" I whispered.

"I'm in love with you Ava." He admitted.

My mouth fell open. "What?"

"I said that I'm in love with you."

"That's not funny." My voice sounded shaky in my ears.

He moved closer to me, leaving only inches between us. His 6'3 frame towered over my small 5'2 making me feel even more overwhelmed. "Now why would I joke about that?"

"I don't know. Why are you telling me this now?"

"You wanted me to be open and honest, I'm giving you that."

I forced myself to take a step back from him in order to clear my head. "You can't be serious. You're not in love with me."

He frowned, "You don't believe me?"

"No, I don't. I think you're just vulnerable after coming out of a serious relationship." I said searching for an explanation.

Mason took a step towards me and I took a step back. He moved forward again and before I could retreat, he tightened the grip on my hand that he still held and tugged me closer, forcing me not to move. My breaths were coming out into shallow gasps and I was trying to control it.

"You don't think I know how I feel?"

"No, I don't." I gasped out.

He released my hand and wrapped his arm around my waist, pulling me flushed against his chest. With his next hand he gripped my chin and tilted my head back forcing me to look at him. "I know how I feel when you look at me." He whispered. "The way the hairs on the back of my neck stand tall when you enter a room. The silky feel of your skin, the electricity that it brings, every time you say my name. I know how I feel when I see you with our daughters, how you take care of them, to see what an amazing mother you are."

I was completely immobile, trapped in his embrace. "Your eyes, your hair, your smell, every single essence of you I'm in love with. I knew it at that party, and I know it now." His breath washed over my face as he spoke, and it was intoxicating.

Goosebumps covered my skin as the hand on my chin slid to my neck before gliding up the back of my hair. I shuddered as his fingers massaged my scalp gently, my eyes fell shut.

"I've been trying so hard to deny it, to stay away but I don't want to anymore."

"Mason please." I gasped, forcing my eyes to open.

He tightened his arm around my waist even more, nearly taking me off my feet, I shuddered again. "See the way your body reacts to me? You feel something for me too."

"N...n..no." I stuttered out.

It was becoming increasingly hard not to collapse into his arms. I shook my head slightly trying to clear my head of the fog.

"I know you do, you're only fighting it because of Royce." At his name I snapped out of my trance. I shook my head more firmly and pulled out of his grasp.

"No, I don't." I said more firmly.

"Are you sure about that?" He frowned.

"Yes I am." He shook his head in disbelief.

"Fine. Then look me in my eyes and tell me that you don't feel something for me, and I'll leave you alone."

I looked into his eyes and opened my mouth to say the words, but nothing came out. His eyes were deep, unyielding and I couldn't force the words out of my mouth

"I..." I sighed and looked away for a moment.

Why can't I just say the words?

"Okay." He said, bringing my attention back to him. "I'll stop. I don't want to make things more complicated for you and especially not for the girls. I'll continue like before, keeping my distance, only calling if it's about the girls and leaving you alone. Our relationship will be strictly platonic for us to co-parent effectively, after all I only want you to be happy."

He stared at me for a long moment before turning away quickly to leave. I jumped forward instantly without thinking.

"No wait!" I pleaded.

He turned to face me once again with a knowing look.

"Mason please don't do that."

"Why?" he asked.

"Isn't that what you wanted?" "Of course not."

"Tell me why." He demanded.

"Because ... I…" I sighed in frustration.

He moved close once again, never breaking eye contact. "That arrangement doesn't sound very good does it?" I shook my head slightly.

He smiled before taking my face gently into his hands. "You can deny it, ignore it or fight it, but I know that you feel something for me. I'll be waiting right here when you're ready to admit it." He vowed.

To say that I was distracted for the rest of the day would be putting it lightly. Even after the girls and I went home, I couldn't take my mind off of our conversation. His words, his touch and the way he looked at me kept me wounded tightly. Why would he do this? Why would he put me in this position? I'm finally in a better place in my relationship with Royce and he sprung this on me. I wished our relationship could go back to the way things were. I knew that if I simply told him to back off, he would. I got a taste of Mason's indifference and I didn't like it one bit. Of course, I'm aware how easier it would be if he kept his distance for me, but I don't want him to and that scares me.

"Avaaaa!" I nearly shot out of my seat at the sound of my name.

I shook my head regaining my focus and realizing that it was Cat calling my name.

"Yea?"

"What's gotten into you? You've been out of it all morning."

"Nothing, nothing I'm fine."

"Ava, do not get into any of your moods today, it's my special day." My mom warned.

We were currently at our spa enjoying a little girl time along with Lily and Peppa who were relishing in a little pampering. Cat and I were getting pedicures while Aunt Mae and Julia were getting manicures. My mom on the other hand was getting her hair done.

"I'm fine mom."

"No, you're not. Now spill." Cat said.

"God there is nothing to spill." I groaned.

"Liar." Julia said.

I rolled my eyes exasperated. "Can't I just be alone with my thoughts for a little while?"

"Well honey you've been alone with your thoughts all morning, clearly something is wrong." Aunt Mae said pointedly.

"This isn't some kind of intervention so drop it."

"Does this have to do with Mason and Chasity splitting?" Everyone's eyes widened and my head snapped in Cat's direction.

"How did you know that?"

"Caleb told me." She shrugged, popping a cookie in her mouth.

"Wait, what?" My mom asked, shocked.

"Mason left Chasity and this isn't on the news yet?" Julia said.

"It's under wraps for now so please don't have loose lips." I pleaded.

"Why didn't you tell us sweetie?"

"Mom, I just found out yesterday."

"Is that why you're so distracted?"

"No." I said quickly.

She lifted a brow and gave me a knowing look. "Ava, who are you kidding? You've been front and center planning this whole day and suddenly it's like you're not even here."

"I know I know and I'm sorry, but I had a lot going on."

"Did you at least remind the guys that I needed their help today?"

"Yes mother, Mason and Caleb promised to be extra early." I said exasperatedly.

"Good, then I won't force you to reveal what has you so distracted. You're entitled to a secret or two." She sighed comfortably.

"Thank you, mom." I stuck my tongue out at Cat and she rolled her eyes.

"Now, I'm going to be thinking about it." She whined.

"Catherine you know Ava talks on her own time, leave her be." Mom said and I was so grateful that she knew me so well.

I can't even begin to come to grips with what was revealed yesterday so I won't air it out at a spa. After our morning at the spa was done, we made our way to my mother's house where the wedding was being held. When we arrived, there were a few workers from the flower shop that were setting up flowers around the yard. I spotted Caleb assisting with the lights that were decorating the fences. Cat grinned in delight and skipped to his side instantly.

"She sure is in love with him." Mom said.

"I'm sure she doesn't realize that as yet." I smiled.

"No, she doesn't." Her tone suggested she was referring to someone else and I glanced at her only to see her smirking at me.

"What?"

"Nothing sweetie. I'm going to head inside to start getting ready."

"Okay, I'll be there in a minute."

I followed her with my eyes into the house before looking around the yard. Since the ceremony and reception is pretty much all in one, we decided to set up beautiful sleek wooden tables and white chairs that surrounded the Arbor. The yard was covered in beautiful flowers all arranged nicely around the chairs, tables and fences. The colorful flowers were quite fitting for my mom's personality and her obsession with her flower garden. It was simple yet elegant, just like her. Suddenly, the air around me changed, knocking me out of my silent appraisal. I didn't have to look to see who stood behind me but couldn't help with doing so. Mason stood casually in a jeans and t-shirt. My eyes focused on the cheeky smile on his face and I couldn't help rolling my eyes.

"You look lovely and you aren't even dressed as yet."

"Thanks." I mumbled.

"Did you and the girls enjoy the spa?"

"Yea we did. It was nice, really nice. It was very thoughtful of Marie."

I rubbed my palms over my pants before turning to look at the decorations once more.

"I hope you're not wearing that." He chuckled lightly and it sounded like bells somehow.

"Of course not. This was because of your request to help with the finishing touches. Caleb and I are leaving in a moment to get ready." I nodded,

"Great."

"Where's Royce?"

"Um he had a few things to do but he'll be here before we begin."

Before he could respond, Peppa walked over with a churro in her hand. "Hi daddy." She said lifting her arms.

"Hi princess." Mason leaned down to pick her up and I narrowed my eyes at the treat in her hand.

"Who gave you that?" I asked.

"Uncle Caleb." She mumbled out while still chewing.

I glanced over to him and he turned away feigning cluelessness. "Your hair looks so pretty." Mason said.

The girls’ hair was pinned up and decorated with flowers to fit the theme as well as their position in the wedding. "Thank you daddy." She beamed.

"Peppa get your sister we soon have to get dressed." I said.

"Is daddy going?" She asked sadly.

"No princess, I'll be right here when you girls are done dressing." He said placing her on her feet.

She nodded satisfied and went to get Lily who was playing with our little cousin Maze. Caleb came over to us along with Cat.

"You ready bro?"

"Yea definitely. We'll see you when we get back." Mason smiled.

I nodded as him and Caleb left the yard. The charged energy finally lifted with their departure and I was able to breathe with ease again. Cat stared at me suspiciously and I ignored her, ducking into the house before she could ask any questions. The upstairs of my mother's house was buzzing with women as we all assisted her with getting dressed as well as ourselves. The girls flower girl dresses were light pink, off the shoulder with lace that covered their shoulders where the dresses didn't. It was elegant with a chiffon bottom and they loved it. Lily was obsessed as she twirled in the mirror and I was more than happy to see her embrace her girly side. My dress was a pink lace chiffon high and low dress with a sweetheart neckline. I loved it. Once the girls and I were dressed I went to check on my mom to make sure she was okay. She stood in front of her full-length mirror next to her bed with a soft smile on her face. My mother's wedding dress was not traditional. She wore a white lacy jumpsuit with a beautiful flowery headpiece for her veil. My favorite part of her outfit was the way the jacket of the suit flared out like any normal wedding dress. "You look great." I whispered. She beamed in my direction, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"Thank you, sweetheart. So, do you." She appraised my dress.

"Are you ready?"

"Shouldn't I be asking you that?" I laughed.

She nodded, "I'm more than ready. I never knew how much I wanted this moment until now."

She admired her image for a moment longer before coming to me and adjusting the flowers in my hair. The top of my hair was pinned with flowers while the back half flowed against my back. "You don't know how much it means to me to have your approval."

"Mom, you don't need my approval to be happy and as long as you are, know that I'll never get in the way of that." She smiled and pulled me into a hug, giving me a squeeze.

"Now, no more tears to ruin your makeup. I'll be waiting for you at the altar." I pulled away slowly and she nodded.

Once I was sure that she was okay, I made my way downstairs to the ceremony. Most of the guests were already seated at their tables while others were conversing with champagne in their hands.

"Ready?"

I turned to see Royce beside me with a wide smile in his face. He was dressed in tan slacks and a light blue long sleeved shirt. I reached over to fix a button in his shirt that he missed. "Don't you look handsome." I smirked.

"Why thank you. You don't look so bad yourself." He winked before tossing his arm over my shoulder.

"Are you guys ready?"

"My mom is. Did you check in on Joey?"

"Definitely, he's more than ready."

"Alrighty then, let's go. Make sure the music is all set." I headed outside and approached Cat and Julia who stood near the front.

"Julia, I need you to make sure Joey and his brother are ready because we're about to start, Cat make sure mom and the girls are in place also." They nodded and went inside as I moved to stand under the Arbor.

"Ahem, attention everyone, can you please find your seats at this time, we are about to start."

There were soft murmurs as everyone who stood, went to their seats quickly. Once I got Julia's signal that the guys were ready, I signaled Royce to start the music. I stood tall as the music flowed through the speakers and Joey stepped onto the lawn. He looked sharp with his new haircut and pressed white suit. I smiled brightly as he walked down the aisle before moving to stand at my right side.

"You look great." I whispered and he grinned.

It was time for the maid of honor and best man to walk down the aisle which was Joey's brother Tim and my Aunt Mae. As they ascended the aisle, I felt a strong urge to look to my left. As I expected, Mason sat next to Caleb at their table and was staring at me intently. His gaze was strong, unwavering and bold as he took in my appearance. I too noticed that he was dressed in navy blue suit with a light blue shirt underneath. The suit made him look handsome and filled with authority. He gave me a slight wink and I blinked away quickly as Aunt Mae and Tim made it to the front. Finally, the moment we all waited for, I signaled for the guests to stand as my mom made her entrance with the girls. The girls stepped out of the house first in confidence. They loved the attention and walked with elegance as they tossed the petals to the ground. I watched as Mason moved closer to the aisle to snap pictures and record a video. They beamed as they sprinkled their petals. I noted that Lily was going heavier than Peppa was and she ran out before she made it halfway. She gasped.

"Mommy my flowers are gone!" The guest chuckled lightly, and I joined in.

"It’s okay baby keep moving."

I watched as Peppa placed some of her petals into Lily's basket before tugging at her hand. I beamed with pride at the gesture and so did Mason. My mother finally stepped out a few feet behind the girls with the brightest smile I've ever saw. I heard a hitch next to me and I looked to see Joey wiping away his tears. The girls made it to the front at Aunt Mae's side and I winked at them.

"Good job." I mouthed.

Joey finally greeted my mother to the front, and I worked to control my tears that were threatening to spill. I started the ceremony and watched their loved filled gazes as they recited their vows, knowing that they made the right choice. After the ceremony, we had to take lots and lots of pictures. The girls were just about fed up when the photographer finally allowed us to leave and mingle with the guest. We ate, danced and shared toasts amongst everyone, and it was beautiful. The sun was beginning to set allowing the twinkle lights around the house and fence to shine brightly, giving the reception a warm glow. I was watching mom and Joey dance when Royce approached me and offered his hand. I smiled and allowed him to pull me onto the dance floor. He pulled me close and I hummed lightly enjoying the embrace. He placed his lips against my ear softly.

"This will be us very soon." He whispered.

Although I love the idea of becoming his wife the thought was slightly unsettling. "Are you okay?"

"Yea, I am."

"You were pretty occupied."

"Well I'm the officiant and the planner, I had a lot to do." He hummed.

"You know that's not what I meant."

He twirled me gently before pulling me back to his chest. "I'm feeling a bit nostalgic I suppose. I'm glad that she's with someone that makes her happy, but things will change."

This was part of the truth. I wouldn't dare confess where most of my unease stemmed from. "Your mother will always love and be there for you babe."

"I know but, things will still change." I murmured.

He nodded gently. "You know what won't change?"

"What?"

"You and I."

He smiled pulling me closer and I couldn't help my smile in return. There were moments when being with each seems like a chore, tiring but in moments like these being in his arms was effortless. I glanced around the party noting that Cat and Caleb were also dancing. Julia sat at our table with Steven and they talked softly as he caressed her baby bump. My eyes finally landed on striking green ones. Mason was sitting with the girls helping them eat their food. His eyes were glued to Royce and I with a smile that didn't reach his eyes. It made me feel like I was cheating or caught in a compromising position. I broke away from his gaze and stepped slightly away from Royce. He gave me a questioning look and I simply shook my head. I nearly breathed a sigh of relief when my mother interrupted us.

"Would it be weird to ask my daughter for a dance?"

Royce laughed, "No, not at all”. I smiled gently as my mom pulled me away from Royce.

I sighed as she took my hands and we swayed to the music. "You looked like you needed a rescue." She grinned.

"How did you know?" I asked, shocked.

"I know my daughter and I know when she is going through something."

I bit my lip nervously and she shook her head. "When you're ready. I do however want to talk to you about something."

"What is it?" I asked worriedly.

"I've decided to sell the house."

"What?" I said coming to a stop.

"Joey and I talked about it."

"But mom you love this house, you worked so hard for it."

She nodded, "I did. The best memories were in that house raising you, but so was some of the worse. The struggles, the late nights and countless hours of work, it's so much that I don't want to be reminded of. Joey's house is twice that size, and it makes no sense keeping it. So, I'm selling the house and quitting my job."

Tears sprung to my eyes and slid down my cheek before I could stop it. "Shh don't cry sweetheart." She wiped away my tears gently.

"You love this house mom and cooking, I just knew things weren't going to be the same." I whimpered.

This was my greatest fear when Joey entered her life, my mother being taken away. "Ava of course not, I'm married now and I'm not giving up cooking, I'm actually going to start catering. I'm a few years from fifty years old. I can't work in that restaurant any longer and Marie is even helping me."

"She is?"

"Yes, she is." She cupped my face gently in her hands.

"Yes, a lot will change but my love for you and my granddaughters won't ever change. You can come by anytime. You know I can always babysit when you need me to, and Joey loves the girls. These changes may seem big but I'm only making space for Joey in our little bubble. You have your own life and your own family and you know that I was always, always be at your side."

I couldn't help my tears as I wrapped my arms around her shoulders, pulling her close. "I love you mom."

"I love you too sweetheart, things won't be that different." She cooed as we swayed to the music.

"Besides, you may be making a few changes of your own." I pulled away slightly to look at her.

"What do you mean?" She looked over to Mason and Royce who stood in a group talking with Caleb, Joey and Steven.

"I hope that you follow your heart without fear and without regret." She whispered.

We continued to sway gently to the music as I tried desperately not to let her words worry me. I didn't want to dwell on what she meant and for the rest of the night, I don't.