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Emily always knew she didn’t like men. She always thought they were useless to society, an exhausting waste of perfectly good oxygen. She'd spent years wondering if one of them would eventually change her mind. None ever did. Women, on the other hand, had always managed to stop her mid-sentence. Ironically, she married a man, Frank. She didn’t love him, she didn’t even like him. She tolerated his presence. He never questioned her work, he rarely judged her decisions and understood that her career would always come first. For Emily, that was enough. Their marriage was built on convention. Love had never been part of the arrangement. Emily tried her best to keep her distance from Frank, finding excuses, working late, everything possible to avoid being in the same room with him for more than two hours. She avoided physical contact too, untill her parents, Elisabeth and David asked her for a grandchild, and after four years of marriage, Frank also tried to talk to Emily about that. A year later, Emily gave birth to Browlyn, a beautiful girl who was her mirror image. She had light green eyes and slightly red, curly hair—a combination that unmistakably revealed Frank’s genetics. During her first pregnancy, Emily attended a prenatal course, where she met Andrea—known as Andy—the course instructor. From the very first class, Andy’s calm confidence and warmth made a lasting impression on Emily, drawing her attention in ways she hadn’t expected. They quickly became close, and on the day of Browlyn’s birth, Andrea was by Emily’s side in the delivery room. Andrea held Emily’s hand, offering all the comfort and reassurance she needed, while Frank was at work—his job, apparently, taking precedence over the birth of his first daughter. From that moment on, Emily felt an undeniable urge to call Andrea her best friend.
Andrea became a constant presence in Emily's (and Frank) home. She knew every piece of furniture as if it were her own, could find the teacups without looking, and always knew where Emily kept a spare pack of diapers. Frank, on the other hand, was simply there, like an ornament in the background, nothing more, nothing less. Emily repeatedly asked Frank to be more involved as a parent, but he would simply agree and then do the bare minimum—changing Winnie’s diaper or feeding her only when Emily was asleep and Andrea wasn’t there to help. Browlyn grew up in what felt like no time at all, turning into a busy toddler before Emily could catch her breath. Before she knew it, just two years after Browlyn was born, Emily was pregnant again. Emily’s second pregnancy was easier than the first, mostly because she had Andrea by her side. But it didn’t take long for Emily to realize that Frank wouldn't be there for Roak’s birth either. The realization hit her harder than she thought; Frank was not going to be a great parent or a great partner.
It was a casual Wednesday night, Andrea was feeding Browlyn her favorite pear puree, while Emily was cooking dinner for the two of them, because as always, Frank was out with his friends. As she finished feeding Browlyn, Andrea glanced over and noticed Emily struggling to stay on her feet, her eyelids heavy, her movements slow. With the due date just a week away, Emily was clearly exhausted. Andrea quietly set the bowl aside and crossed the room, standing behind Emily, she wrapped her arms around her in a gentle hug, then slid her hands beneath Emily’s belly to offer a supportive lift. The small gesture immediately eased some of the pressure on Emily’s lower back and pelvis, helping her stand a little taller and breathe a little easier. Andrea held the support for a moment, letting Emily rest into her, putting all her weight on her best friend's body.
Emily let out a deep sigh of relief. “Oh my god, Andrea, that’s heaven,” she murmured, leaning back into Andy’s embrace and letting herself relax for the first time all evening.
Andrea let out a small laugh and kept lifting Emily’s belly. “Tell me when I can let go Em”
If it were possible, Emily would have stayed like that until the day she gave birth—it was so comfortable, and for the first time in weeks, she felt lighter, almost free from the heaviness that had been weighing her down. After a couple of minutes, Emily tells Andrea to let go and help her with the last things for dinner. Frank didn’t dare to call “home” to see if his wife needed any kind of help, but Emily already knew that he wouldn’t call. Yes, he cared but not enough and she couldn’t expect anything else from a man. Dinner was peaceful. Andrea kept Browlyn entertained whenever Emily needed a break, and afterward she cleaned the dishes—even tho Emily had threatened to revoke her privileges as best friend. When it was time for bed, Andrea gently put Browlyn to sleep, letting Emily stay curled up on the couch, too tired to move.
“Andy” Emily quietly said, trying not to wake up Browlyn, who was sleeping in the next room.
“Em, I’m coming.” Andrea replied from the kitchen, her voice low and warm. “Just putting away the dishes—I’ll be there in a minute.”
Emily remained sprawled on the couch, tablet in hand as she sketched ideas for her upcoming summer collection. A few moments after she called out, she heard Andrea’s footsteps approaching—and then saw her appear, holding two glasses of orange juice. Since Emily couldn’t drink wine, Andrea had made it a point never to touch alcohol when they were together.
“Here I am, I got the good stuff” Andrea said as she sat on the couch next to Emily.
Emily just smiled and fixed her glasses. Then she took a deep breath and set aside the tablet.
“I want to divorce Frank,” she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. “I can’t keep pretending anymore, Andy. I’m tired. Tired of feeling alone, tired of forcing myself to go through the motions. He’s a good man, in his own way, but he’s never really been there for me, or for Browlyn. And I’m failing to belive he’ll be there for Roak. I feel like I’m living someone else’s life, not mine.”
She glanced at Andrea, searching her face for understanding. “I want something real. I want to be happy, and for God’s sake, I’ve always known I wouldn’t find it in a man. I want my kids to grow up in a home where there’s love—not just routine.”
Andrea’s expression softened with a quiet empathy, she didn’t say a word. Instead, she just hugged Emily. That simple gesture was worth more than a thousand words.
“I’ll be there for you, no matter what. Okay, em?” Andrea finally spoke as she placed a kiss on Emily’s forehead.
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The following week was a whirlwind. Emily reached out to two different lawyers, only to discover that Frank had already filed the divorce paperwork two years earlier but, for reasons she couldn’t understand, had never followed through. Roak was born at the start of the week, and, unsurprisingly, there was no sign of Frank at the hospital. Only Andrea was there, filling the room with flowers and bringing two cupcakes so they could celebrate together. Definitely a best friend behaviour.
Andrea gradually became part of the family, slipping seamlessly into their daily lives without anyone really noticing when it happened. Browlyn began asking for Aunt Andy nearly four times a day, her face lighting up whenever Andrea walked through the door. Roak, too, adored her—he laughed uncontrollably every time Andrea played peekaboo with him, his giggles filling the house with warmth. Emily was finally divorced from Frank, nearly two years after Roak’s birth. Strangely enough, her parents said it was the best decision she could have made. They seemed relieved, even supportive, as if they’d been waiting for Emily to finally choose her own happiness.
Eventually, Emily began to date again. She met so many people, but somehow almost no one fit the idea of a partner Emily had. After almost seven years, Emily she finally met Serena, a kind and strikingly beautiful model, and found herself genuinely interested for the first time in years. When Emily shared the news with Andrea, she sensed a subtle shift in the air—a flicker of something unspoken in Andrea’s eyes. Emily couldn’t quite pinpoint what it was, but a quiet tension lingered between them. Andrea’s behaviour didn’t change, though. She wanted Emily to be happy, but somehow, seeing her smiling while talking to Serena made her chest hurt and she couldn’t understand why. Andrea and Serena never met, not because they didn’t want to, but because it felt too soon for everyone. Emily and Serena dated for almost eleven months. Everything shifted, though, the night Emily finally decided to invite both Serena and Andrea over for dinner while Miranda watched the kids. She hoped leaving her boss with a 9-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy was the right choice, but she went with it anyway. It was meant to be a relaxed evening—good food, laughter, the comfort of friends and something more.
When Serena arrived, she already found Andrea in the kitchen, making dinner for the three of them. It looked like she was used to that kitchen; she moved perfectly between the furniture, like she had been doing this for a lifetime. Andy finally turned around and saw Serena standing by the door frame just as Emily finished closing the front door.
“Serena! Hi!” Andy greeted her, her voice bright with enthusiasm, though her eyes betrayed a flicker of something else. “I’m Andrea— nice to meet you!” She offered Serena a gentle handshake.
“Hi, Andrea, nice to meet you too,” Serena replied with a warm smile. “I’ve heard so many things about you.”
“I hope all bad things!” Andrea joked, a playful grin on her face. Without thinking, she moved to hug Emily and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead—their familiar ritual, filled with comfort and affection. Serena looked confused but just decided to ignore the situation for now.
The dinner went great, except for the fact that Andrea had her seat at the table, and it was next to Emily. Whenever Serena asked where something was in the house, Emily would simply reply, “Andy can show you,” as if Andrea belonged there, as if she knew every corner of Emily’s life better than anyone else ever could.
Serena couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to Emily and Andrea’s relationship than either of them let on. The little moments, the shared looks, the effortless way Andrea moved around the house, the quiet intimacy of their interactions stayed with her long after dinner ended. Eventually, Serena decided she needed to talk to Emily about it.
“Emily, can I talk to you? In private.” Serena finally spoke to Emily.
“Yes Sere, follow me.” Emily gestured to the second living room chair.
Serena hesitated for a moment, then followed Emily into the quieter space. She took the offered seat, her hands fidgeting in her lap.
“Em, I need to ask you something,” Serena began gently, her tone serious but kind. “What’s really going on between you and Andrea?”
The question almost hit Emily like a truck. Andrea was her best friend. Still, the intensity of Serena’s gaze made her realize how blurred the lines had become, how much Andrea’s presence shaped her daily life. For a moment, Emily struggled to find the right words. Then she broke the silence.
“She’s my best friend,” Emily replied, her voice steady but full of emotion. “She’s been with me since I had Browlyn. She held my hand during both deliveries and helped me through the divorce—she’s always been there. She means everything to me. She’s my best friend.”
Serena listened quietly, watching the way Emily’s face softened as she spoke about Andrea. The repetition of “she’s my best friend” lingered in the air, as if Emily herself needed the reassurance. Yet beneath those words, Serena sensed something more, something Emily might not have been ready to admit even to herself.
Serena sighed, her voice gentle but firm. “I don’t want to come between you two, Emily. It feels like you and Andrea have this unspoken connection—like there’s a red thread tying you together, keeping you close no matter what. I don’t want you to have to break that thread for me, or ever feel like you have to choose between us.”
Emily stared at Serena, confusion clouding her features. She opened her mouth to respond, but the words tangled up before they could form. Emily hesitated, searching for the right words. “I… I never really thought about it like that,” she admitted quietly. “Andrea and I have always just… fit. She’s been my constant, but I didn’t realize it looked like that from the outside. I’m not sure what any of this means, Serena. I care about you, but I don’t want to lose her. I can’t lose her. I just feel… torn.”
Serena gave Emily’s hand a gentle squeeze and placed a soft kiss on her lips before pulling her into a brief, comforting hug. “You already have your answer, Em,” she whispered. Then, with a small, bittersweet smile, Serena stood up and quietly left the room, leaving Emily alone with her thoughts and the weight of realization settling in.
Emily felt strangely lighter, as if a burden she hadn’t fully realized she was carrying had just been lifted. Still unsure of what exactly had changed, she got up from the chair and wandered into the kitchen, hoping to find Andrea. Instead, she found a handwritten note on the counter:
“I’m picking up the kids from Miranda, I’ll be back before you could start missing me… well us”
A soft smile tugged at Emily’s lips as she read the note. She ran her thumb over Andrea’s handwriting, feeling a warmth settle inside her. In that quiet kitchen, with the house momentarily empty, Emily realized just how much Andrea’s presence meant to her—how much her life, her home, and even her happiness seemed to orbit around Andy. She didn’t have to wait long before the kids were home. Laughter echoed outside as Browlyn and Roak tumbled up the walkway, their joy unmistakable. Andrea opened the door—of course, she had a key to Emily’s house, just as Emily had one to hers—and the kids burst inside, racing to throw their arms around their mother. Emily knelt down, gathering them into a hug, feeling their warmth and the familiar steadiness of Andrea standing just behind them.
“Monsters, did you behave? or Miranda will fire me?” Emily teased, grinning as she hugged Browlyn and Roak close. The kids giggled, nodding enthusiastically, while Andrea leaned against the doorframe, watching the scene with a fond smile.
Andrea shrugged off her jacket and glanced around the hallway. “Where’s Serena? Did she leave already? I wanted to say hi…” she asked, her tone casual but tinged with curiosity as she hung her jacket by the door.
Emily nodded, a small, wistful smile tugging at her lips. “Yeah, she left. We talked for a bit and… I think she realized we’re so different, yet so similar.” She glanced at Andrea, her eyes soft. “It was for the best.”
“Oh, Em, I’m sorry,” Andrea said, pulling Emily into a warm hug. “There are so many good, amazing, and extraordinary women out there. I know you’ll find the right one for you—I’m absolutely sure of it.”
Emily melted into Andrea’s embrace, letting herself be comforted by the familiar warmth.
“Mommy, can we have a cup of gelato, please?” Roak asked, his voice small and hopeful.
“Roo, Aunt Miranda already gave you—” Browlyn started to say, but Roak quickly put a hand over his sister’s mouth.
“Mommy, don’t listen to her. She smacked her head on the floor when she was born,” Roak declared proudly.
The whole room erupted with laughter. “You can share one cup Roo” Emily said, still laughing.
The rest of the night felt easier for Emily, even tho she felt bad for Serena. Later, Andrea gathered her things and said goodnight, explaining she had an early photoshoot the next day.
After Serena’s words, nothing outwardly changed. Life went on as usual, but Emily found herself replaying the conversation in her mind. She tried to make sense of what Serena had seen—this supposed “red thread” between her and Andrea—but no matter how much she thought about it, Emily couldn’t quite grasp what the real problem was. It lingered in the back of her mind, a puzzle she couldn’t solve. Emily found herself glancing at her phone more often, hoping for a message from Andrea. They would see each other almost every day, but whenever Andrea left Emily’s house, Emily would start thinking about the time spent together. And every time, her mind kept circling around the same questions. Why did her heart race when Andrea was near? Why did it bother her so much when Andrea mentioned another girl? The truth was still out of reach for Emily—she didn’t realize she was, bit by bit, falling in love with Andrea.
Andrea was well aware that Emily occupied a unique and irreplaceable place in her heart. Every time Emily was near, Andrea felt a flutter in her stomach she couldn’t ignore. Each hug, each gentle kiss on the forehead lingered longer than it should, and Andrea found herself wishing those moments would never end. The following nights, Andrea kept staring at the ceiling. She replayed every moment from the past few weeks—every laugh, every touch, every time Emily’s eyes met hers across a crowded room. She felt that the feelings were growing harder to hide, and she wondered how much longer she could pretend. She tried to keep things normal, laughing at inside jokes and helping with the kids, but sometimes she’d catch herself staring a little too long or letting her hand linger during a hug.
The first time Emily noticed something had shifted between her and Andrea was on an ordinary Tuesday. Andrea was on the living room floor, building Lego towers with Browlyn while Emily was making changes to a new dress. The sound of Andrea’s laughter, genuine and free, drifted across the room, making Emily’s heart flutter in a way she couldn’t ignore.
Roak, hunched over his homework at the table, suddenly stood up and walked over to Andrea, his steps hesitant. He tapped her shoulder, glancing shyly at the floor.
“Andy, can I ask you something?” he whispered, as if afraid to be overheard.
“Yes, Roo, what’s up?” Andrea replied gently, letting him sit on her lap.
Roak pulled a slightly crumpled card from his pocket. “I have a football game Sunday. Would you come with Mommy to watch me?” he asked softly, pressing the card into her hand. On it, in his careful handwriting, was Andy’s invitation.
Andrea’s face lit up with a smile that made the whole room feel warmer. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world, champ,” she said, hugging him close and covering him with kisses.
Emily watched the scene unfold, a sudden wave of emotion washing over her. There was something so natural about the way Andrea was with the kids. That was the first time Emily thought Andrea would be a perfect parent.
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Sunday arrived quicker than anyone expected, and the whole house buzzed with excitement for Roak’s game. Browlyn was super excited, insisting that Andrea help her make a colorful banner with Roak’s name on it. She had big plans—she wanted to wave it proudly while sitting high on Andrea’s shoulders— something that Emily refused to approve— ready to cheer her brother on. When they arrived at the game, Emily delivered an enthusiastic pep talk to Roak, telling him he was destined to become the best goalkeeper in England’s history. Roak listened wide-eyed, soaking up every word, while Browlyn and Andrea were doing their best to hide their laughter behind bright, supportive smiles. The coach, Colt Seavers, was already out on the field, rallying the kids with a pre-game pep talk. As the game was about to start, he jogged over to greet them.
“Hey, Coach Colt Seavers,” he said, shaking both Emily and Andrea’s hands before gallantly kissing Browlyn’s little hand—she was perched proudly on Andrea’s shoulders, banner in hand. “You Roak’s parents? Nice to meet ya.”
Emily felt a flush creep up her cheeks and quickly clarified, “I’m Roak’s mother. She’s my best friend, Andrea Sachs.”
“Hi,” Andrea managed, her voice coming out quieter than she intended.
Coach Seavers grinned. “Oh, you could’ve fooled me. Enjoy the game!” He gave them a wink before heading back to the field, leaving Andrea and Emily exchanging a glance, both a little flustered and, for a moment, unable to hide their smiles.
Neither Emily nor Andrea said a word about the coach’s comment, but it lingered between them, hanging in the air like an unspoken possibility. Meanwhile, Browlyn couldn’t stop grinning. She clung to Andrea’s shoulders, waving her banner with extra enthusiasm, clearly delighted by the idea of having another mom—maybe even a cool one.
The game ended with Roak’s team taking the win, and the boy was so thrilled he dashed across the field, shouting with joy as he ran straight into his mother’s arms. Emily scooped him up, spinning him around while Browlyn and Andrea cheered from the sidelines, their excitement matching his own. Back home, Emily insisted on letting Andrea stay the night, since it was late. It wasn’t until she was looking for a spare pair of pajamas that Emily realized—with a jolt of surprise—that this was the first time in nearly ten years that Andrea would be spending the night. As Emily grabbed the clothes, another realization struck her—there was no guest room anymore. What used to be a spare room had gradually transformed into Roak’s bedroom over the years. She paused in the hallway, a nervous flutter in her chest, and made her way back to the living room where Andrea was settling in.
“Looks like you’re taking my bed tonight,” Emily said, trying to sound casual. “Roak’s claimed the guest room for good. I’ll sleep with him”
Andrea shook her head immediately. “No way, Em. I’m not kicking you out of your own bed,” she said, her tone gentle but firm. “We can just share—if that’s okay with you.”
“You’re completely sure? I move in my sleep, for your own information.” Emily raised an eyebrow while handing Andrea the pajamas.
“Positive, Em. Don’t worry!” Her smile softened.
Emily just smiled, warmth spreading through her as she gathered the kids for bed. Roak was first—he was already clutching his favorite book, waiting eagerly for Emily to read him a couple of chapters. She tucked him in, and started reading Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. Halfway through the third chapter, Roak held his mother's hand and said, half asleep “I like Aunty Andy; I wish we could keep her forever.” Emily’s heart softened as she squeezed Roak’s small hand, his eyelids already drooping. She smiled, brushing a stray curl from his forehead. “Me too, sweetheart,” she whispered. “Me too.”
As Roak fell asleep, Emily moved on to Browlyn’s room. She tucked her daughter in, smoothing out the blankets. Some nights, Winnie would ask for a bedtime story, but tonight she simply reached out and whispered, “Can we just cuddle, Mum?” Emily slid in beside her, wrapping her arms around Browlyn.
“Mummy?” Browlyn’s voice was barely more than a whisper, but it made Emily’s heart soften instantly.
“Yes, Winnie?”
“Does Aunty Andy like us? Like, all of us?” she asked, her words hesitant.
“Of course she does, sweetheart. Why do you ask?”
“I don’t know… Will she still like us if I don’t call her ‘Aunty’ but just ‘Andy’?”
Emily smiled, brushing a strand of hair from Browlyn’s face. “Oh, Winnie, I think she wouldn’t mind at all. But you can always ask her yourself next time she’s over.”
Browlyn just nodded, comforted, and drifted off to sleep a few moments later. As Emily lay there, she couldn’t help but wonder what had prompted her children to ask questions like that. Maybe they sensed the changes happening around them, or maybe Andrea’s presence had become so natural, so important, that the kids wanted reassurance she would always be part of their lives. Her thoughts were interrupted by Andrea. Andrea was standing in the doorway, waiting for Emily. She hadn’t climbed into bed yet, unsure which side belonged to Emily and not wanting to assume. They slipped under the covers in silence, the quiet of the room filled with the hum of unspoken thoughts. Andrea lay on her back, staring at the ceiling, her mind racing with questions she didn’t dare voice. The closeness to Emily made her heart quicken. She was anxious about this closeness and the fear of what it meant. Meanwhile, Emily, exhausted by the day, had already drifted off to sleep. It was close to three in the morning when Andrea woke Emily—not because she couldn’t sleep, but because a nightmare had jolted her awake. Her breathing was uneven and her hands trembled slightly as she reached out, needing reassurance. Emily, still half asleep, instinctively turned toward her, concern etching her features even in the dim light.
“Is everything okay, darling?” Emily murmured, her voice thick with sleep, not even realizing she called Andrea “darling”. She instinctively drew Andrea closer, her hand gently rubbing Andrea’s back as she waited for an answer, but Andrea was unable to answer. Emily simply held her, wrapping her arms around Andrea in a steady back hug, not letting go until she felt Andrea’s breathing gradually slow and return to normal.
“Thank you.” it was barely audible, but Emily heard it. She didn’t say anything, she instead placed a kiss ofìn Andrea’s temple. They lay together in silence for several minutes. Eventually, Andrea found her voice again. “Is it okay if we stay like this a little longer?” she asked quietly. “Of course” Emily replied, hugging Andrea even tighter. They fell asleep like this.
The next morning, Andrea woke before anyone else. Careful not to disturb Emily, she slipped out of bed and made her way to the kitchen. Wanting to start the day on a bright note, she whipped up pancakes and brewed fresh coffee, setting the table with breakfast for Emily and the kids. It was the minimum she could do to repay Emily for comforting her last night. Not long after breakfast was ready, Emily and the kids made their way downstairs. That was the moment Emily noticed Andrea in the kitchen, hair messy from sleep, dressed in her casual clothes, carefully making pancakes as sunlight spilled across the counter.
Emily began to notice things she’d overlooked before: the way Andrea always smiled at the kids first, then at her; how she knew exactly what each of them liked for breakfast without having to ask. She noticed the way Andrea’s hair fell in soft waves over her shoulders, and how cute she looked with a bit of whipped cream on the tip of her nose. Emily smiled and walked over to Andrea, wiping the whipped cream off her nose with her thumb. This simple gesture seemed to send Andrea into a complete system error.
Of course, the kids noticed right away.
“Mommy, Andy’s red—like the strawberry marmalade!” Browlyn giggled, pointing at Andrea’s blushing cheeks.
Roak joined in, laughing, and Andrea could only stare at them, trying to hide her face.
Emily grinned, glancing at Andrea’s flushed cheeks. “She does look a bit like our strawberry marmalade, doesn’t she?” she teased, giving Andrea a playful nudge. “I think it suits her.”
Andrea quickly changed the subject, clearing her throat and brushing off her embarrassment. “Actually, I need to tell you something,” she said, looking at Emily. “I have to go back to Ohio for a week. My parents are moving and they need my help with packing and everything.”
“Oh, okay. Do you need any help?” Emily asked, concern flickering in her eyes.
Andrea shook her head with a small smile. “No, I’ve got it covered. I just wanted to check—am I going to miss any of the kids’ activities while I’m gone?”
Emily shook her head. “Nope, you’re in the clear. Nothing major this week. We’ll save all the excitement for when you’re back.”
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The weeks without Andrea felt like an eternity. Emily hadn’t expected to miss her best friend this much, but every day felt a little emptier. She caught herself checking her phone constantly, hoping for a message from Andrea. The kids missed her too—they sent Andrea endless photos, drawings, and updates about everything they did, trying to fill the space she’d left behind. The house just didn’t feel the same without her laughter and warmth. That’s when Serena’s words started to echo in Emily’s mind. The idea of a red thread connecting her and Andrea, the unspoken bond that even others could see, it all began to make sense in Andrea’s absence. Emily realized just how much she relied on Andy’s presence, how much brighter and fuller life felt when she was around. The longing she felt wasn’t just about missing a friend; it was something deeper, something she could no longer ignore. One evening, after the kids had gone to bed, Emily sat alone at the kitchen table, scrolling through the dozens of photos and messages they’d sent Andrea that week. She caught herself smiling at Andy’s replies, her heart skipping each time a new message appeared. For the first time, Emily allowed herself to admit it: she didn’t just miss her best friend—she missed having Andrea around, smelling her perfume, watching her play with the kids or cheer them up whenever something was wrong.
And then she admitted that maybe Andrea wasn’t just her best friend. Maybe she wanted her to be something more. She needed to stop hiding her feelings and let herself be honest with herself.
She spent the entire Friday night replaying every interaction she’d ever had with Andrea, tracing their history back to the very beginning. It was then she realized when her feelings had first started to change: that night, years ago, when Andrea had gently lifted her belly to relieve the pressure. Emily could still remember the sensation of Andrea hugging her from behind, the warmth of her touch, the way Andrea’s head fit perfectly in the space between her shoulder and neck. Then something else had shifted the day she heard Roak laugh so hard when Andrea played peekaboo with him. At the time, Emily thought her heart felt full because of Roak’s happiness, but now she realized it was more than that. It was seeing Andrea play with her child so naturally, fitting into their lives so effortlessly, that truly melted her heart. She remembered all the stolen glances they shared in crowded rooms, the way Andrea showed up for every one of the kids’ events, never missing a single recital or game. Emily thought about how Andrea always seemed like a natural parent—especially when Roak shyly asked her to come to his game. The memory of Coach Colt referring to them as Roak’s parents still made her heart skip a beat. She realized now that those moments weren’t just about friendship; they were about something deeper. Then the final realization hit her as she remembered holding Andrea in her sleep and, without thinking, calling her “darling.” Just the thought of saying that word to Andrea again sent a rush of butterflies through her stomach. It was crystal clear now—Emily was in love with Andrea. Serena was right, it took her almost a year to understand but she did.
She grabbed her phone and sent a quick text to Serena.
Thank you, I understood it now.
Serena responded with a simple heart emoji—no words needed. Serena had known all along, and her quiet confirmation made Emily smile, grateful for the gentle push that helped her see the truth.
It was now almost one in the morning, but that didn’t stop her from texting Andrea.
when you’ll be home?
the kids miss you
tomorrow around 4pm
and i miss them like crazy
you dont miss me?!? wow…
I was attempting to preserve my dignity.
Clearly, that was wasted on you.
Yes, I miss you.
aww, see you tomorrow.
I’ll bring you coffee.
Emily found herself smiling at the phone. She wasn’t sure Andrea would feel the same way about her, but she was determined to see if there was a remote possibility.
The next morning, Emily woke up at seven, just like always. She made breakfast, helped the kids get their schoolbags ready, and hustled everyone out the door. Browlyn and Roak were strangely quiet that morning, which usually leads to a question or a statement that will destroy Emily’s mental health. The first to speak was Browlyn.
“Mommy, is Andy coming today?” Browlyn asked as she slipped on her coat.
“Yes, honey, she’ll be here around four,” Emily replied, already jingling the car keys in her hand.
Just then, Roak appeared from behind Browlyn, trying to hide a little before speaking up. “Mommy, do you like Andy?” he blurted out, his tone innocent but curious.
Emily almost choked on air, completely unprepared for that kind of question from her kid.
“Of course I like Andy, baby. Everyone likes Andy” Emily said, managing a smile as she ruffled Roak’s hair.
Roak looked unconvinced, looking at her with serious eyes. “No, Mommy, I mean do you like like her? Like in the movies?”
Browlyn giggled, clearly enjoying her brother’s boldness. Emily felt her face grow even warmer, caught completely off guard. She glanced at the rearview mirror as she started the car, her heart pounding a little faster.
“Well,” she said softly, “maybe I do, but you need the coat before you go to school.” The admission hung in the air, as she changed the subject.
After dropping the kids off at school, she grabbed her things and headed to Dior, her mind already drifting to Roak’s question. She decided to ignore it for now and focus on her work. During the day she managed to text Andrea a few times to see if she needed anything when she came back home.
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Andrea knew something was altered in her. She found herself thinking of Emily even in the busiest moment, when she was helping her parents sort through old boxes. At first, Andrea chalked it up to missing her routine and the chaos of Emily’s home. But then whenever Emily’s message lit up the screen, she found herself smiling, feeling a little tug in her chest that she tried to ignore. Each night she found herself replaying all the small moments, Emily’s laugh at breakfast, the way Roak hugged her leg, Browlyn’s drawings taped to the fridge. She remembered how natural it felt to help with homework, cook dinner, or just sit on the couch next to Emily, sharing comfortable silences. She liked it, she thought it was the best friendship she ever had since Lily in high school. But as the days went by, Andrea realized that tug was growing stronger. She missed the kids, but when she imagined coming back, it was always Emily’s face that appeared first in her mind. One evening, while helping her mom wrap dishes, her mother commented on how happy Andrea sounded whenever she talked about Emily and the kids. Andrea froze, dish in hand, feeling her cheeks flush. That comment stuck with her for the rest of the night. She couldn’t shake the pressure in her chest, but she didn’t want to name it. Maybe she was scared to. Deep down, she knew Emily wasn’t just a friend to her anymore. But the thought of saying it out loud—and risking everything—was almost too much to bear.
So Andrea kept her feelings tucked away, caught between longing for more and fearing she could lose the most important person in her life. That pressure in her chest refused to go away, no matter how many times Andrea tried to distract herself with packing or family stories. She kept telling herself it was just fear of change, or maybe just the comfort she found at Emily’s house, but deep down she knew it was more than that. Every time she thought about coming home, it wasn’t the house or the city she missed—it was Emily’s smile, the way her eyes lit up when Andrea walked in, the quiet sense of belonging she felt just being near her.
When Andrea finally returned to New York, she knew Emily would still be at work and the kids would be at school. Wanting to help out, she decided to pick up Browlyn and Roak and maybe cook something for dinner before Emily got home—a small way to show how much she’d missed them. Little did Andrea know, Emily had left the office early that day. Deep inside, she knew Andrea would go and pick up the kids. She knew her like the back of her hand. She couldn’t quite explain her decision, but deep down, she knew she just wanted to be home when Andrea arrived, to welcome her back and make sure she felt comfortable after the exhausting flight. At home, he set her bag down and wandered into the kitchen, glancing around at the familiar space that suddenly felt different with the expectation of Andrea’s return. After a moment, she paused, realizing she was fussing more than usual—checking her hair in the hallway mirror, adjusting her shirt, even spritzing a little of her favorite perfume. Then she realized what she did. She shook her head and decided to cook some Lasagna for dinner.
Andrea arrived at the school, excitement bubbling in her chest, only to be stopped at the front desk. The receptionist gave her a polite but firm smile. “Do you have the pickup authorization form? The one we have on file expired last week.”
Andrea’s heart sank a little. She hadn’t realized the paperwork needed updating, and now she stood there, empty-handed, feeling a bit embarrassed. “Oh, I’m sorry,” she replied, trying to keep her voice steady. “I didn’t know it was expired. Emily is their mom. She knows I’m picking them up today.”
The receptionist shook her head apologetically. “I need a confirmation. I can only let them go with a close family member.”
Suddenly, Browlyn appeared at the desk, her eyes bright with determination. “She’s my mother’s girlfriend. She can pick us up, right?” she said, looking from the receptionist to Andrea with total confidence.
Andrea’s cheeks flushed, caught off guard by Browlyn’s boldness. Roak bolted to Andrea, screaming her name and Winnie just winked and said “You’re welcome, Andy”
Once they were all buckled in and the car doors were closed, Andrea glanced at Browlyn in the rearview mirror, still feeling the heat in her cheeks. "Winnie, why did you say that to the receptionist?" she asked, her voice gentle but curious.
Browlyn shrugged, a mischievous little smile on her face. "Because it’s true," she said simply. "Aren’t you mommy’s girlfriend?"
Roak piped up from the back seat, "Yeah, Andy. Wyn saw you and mommy sleeping, hugging each other. Plus you make her smile a lot."
Andrea felt her cheeks grow even warmer, glancing at Browlyn’s reflection. “Well… I…we’re not—” she stammered, caught off guard by their certainty.
Browlyn just giggled. “It’s okay, Andy. Mommy smiles more when you’re around. I think she likes you too.”
Roak nodded enthusiastically. “And you always make pancakes. That’s what girlfriends do.”
Andrea couldn’t help but laugh. “Roo, making pancakes isn’t just a girlfriend thing. Your mommy and I have been friends since Browlyn was born. I’ve just always been around, that’s all.”
Browlyn piped up from the back seat, her voice matter-of-fact. “Yeah, but Frank was never there for Mommy. You were.”
Andrea glanced at her in the mirror, momentarily speechless as the truth in Browlyn’s words settled over her.
Roak, not wanting to be left out, chimed in from the back seat, “And you buy Mommy flowers, and Legos for Wyn, and you got me that big truck for my birthday.”
Andrea smiled, her heart full. “Well, I guess I just like doing nice things for the people I care about,” she said gently. “You guys are really special to me, and so is your mommy.”
Roak looked at Andrea with big, hopeful eyes. “But if you and Mommy are together, can we know? Like, will you tell us?”
Andrea’s smile grew gentle. “Of course, Roo. If anything changes, you two will be the very first to know. I promise.”
Andrea drove the kids home—well, to Emily’s house—her thoughts swirling with everything they’d said. Their words echoed in the back of her mind, filling her with a strange mix of hope, nerves, and warmth. As she opened the door she saw the kids sprinting towards Emily.
“Mommyyy Andy is hereee” they both screamed, rushing straight into Emily’s arms.
Emily knelt down, pulling them into a big hug, her face lighting up with joy. Andrea lingered in the doorway for a moment, taking in the scene.
“Andy, oh my lord, come here,” Emily called out, pulling Andrea into a warm hug as soon as she stepped inside. She held her tight and whispered, “I missed you.”
Andrea hugged her back, smiling. “Me too.”
After a moment, Andrea pulled back slightly and said, “By the way, we need to update the paperwork at the school if you want me to pick up the kids again. It expired a week ago.”
Emily laughed, still holding Andrea’s hand. “Noted. I’ll take care of it tomorrow.” Then she raised an eyebrow and added. “How did you manage to pick them up then?”
Before Andrea could answer, Browlyn grinned and piped up, “I did some magic work, Mommy.”
Roak nodded seriously, adding, “Wyn told them you were her girlfriend. It worked!”
Emily’s eyes widened in surprise, her mouth dropping open. She looked from Browlyn to Andrea, clearly caught off guard. “You… you said what?” she asked, her voice half amused, half stunned.
Browlyn just shrugged, completely unbothered. “It’s true, isn’t it?”
Emily shook her head, still wide-eyed. “No, it’s not true, Winnie. You can’t just go around telling people things like that,” she said gently but firmly.
Browlyn looked a little sad but held Emily’s gaze. “I’m sorry mommy” she mumbled, her voice soft.
“It’s okay, Winnie,” Emily said softly, giving her daughter a reassuring smile. “Now go on, head to the kitchen—dinner’s ready.”
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As the kids disappeared into the kitchen, Emily lingered in the hallway with Andrea. The house felt unusually quiet for a moment, somehow, Browlyn's confession made both Emily and Andrea aware of the situation. They moved together toward the kitchen, each lost in their own thoughts. Emily felt her heart beating faster, realizing how easy it was to imagine Andrea as something more than just a friend. Emily realized, with a clarity she couldn’t ignore, that Andrea had been perfect for her family from the very beginning—ever since that first gentle belly lift. Over the years, Andrea had quietly taken up the space Frank left behind, not by trying to fill his shoes, but by offering something even more essential. Where Frank’s presence had always felt distant and conditional, Andrea brought a warmth and steady love that wrapped around them all. She became more than a father figure; she became the person who gave her family the unconditional care and devotion they’d always needed—something Emily’s ex-husband had never been able to give. The kids treated Andrea like family, and for Emily, that was more than she could have ever hoped for. It was the kind of comfort and belonging she’d spent years searching for, now unfolding naturally in her own home. Andrea, though, noticed that Emily seemed a little distracted during dinner—her smiles a bit softer, her gaze lingering longer than usual. Not wanting to overstep, Andrea simply asked how Emily was doing. Emily just smiled, her eyes warm and a little shy, and assured her she was more than fine.
When bedtime rolled around, Roak insisted that Andy be the one to tuck him in. At the same time, Browlyn tugged on Emily’s sleeve, wanting her mom for their usual nighttime routine.
Andrea quietly slipped into Roak’s room, finding him standing on the bed clutching his well-worn crab plushie. His eyes lit up when he saw her, and without hesitation, he asked if she could tell him a bedtime story. Andrea smiled, her heart full, and sat beside him, settling in as Roak nestled close, ready to listen.
“Andy,” Roak murmured, his voice already thick with sleep.
“Yes, champ,” she replied softly, tucking the blankets around him.
“You would be a perfect mother, you know,” he whispered, eyes fluttering shut.
Andrea was stunned, caught off guard by the innocent honesty in his words. She leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead, quietly wishing him goodnight before slipping out of the room.
Meanwhile, Emily was in Browlyn’s room, curled up beside her as they shared a quiet cuddle. Just as Browlyn’s eyes began to flutter closed, she whispered, “She’s the best person we know, mommy. I like that. She makes everyone happy—especially you.”
Emily smiled softly, brushing a strand of hair from her daughter’s forehead. “I know, sweetheart. Now sleep,” she murmured, pressing a gentle kiss to Browlyn’s forehead. Emily laid in the darkness next to Browlyn for a while, her mind restless. She was certain now—Andrea was the one. The thought was both comforting and terrifying. Andrea had been there for her and the kids through everything. She was everything Emily could have dreamed of, and maybe that was what scared her most. She didn’t want to risk losing her by loving her openly, but the weight of her feelings was too much to carry alone.
Needing to get it off her chest, Emily picked up her phone and opened a new message to Serena.
sere, do you have a minute?
yes emily, what’s going on
I just… I really need to talk to someone.
I think I’m falling in love with Andrea.
Or maybe I already am.
I’m terrified, Sere.
Emily, I knew this was coming.
I could see it ages ago.
Why are you scared?
Because she means so much to the kids and me.
She’s part of our family, even if we’ve never said it out loud.
What if I tell her and ruin everything?
What if she doesn’t feel the same way?
Em, you can’t keep living in fear of what might go wrong.
What if she feels exactly the same and you both keep missing out?
She’s always been there for you.
That has to mean something.
And I saw how she looked at you, that’s why I ended things with you Em.
Not because I didn’t love you, but because I knew she was the right one.
I just don’t want to lose her.
She’s the best thing that ever happened to us.
Thank you for understanding this whole situation.
You won’t lose her. The love you’re feeling is real—don’t be afraid of it.
Andy’s crazy about you, and don’t thank me. Go to her.
Thank you sere.
Emily got up, startled by the soft click of Roak’s door closing. She hurried into the hallway and found Andrea, who was quietly gathering her things, ready to slip away to her apartment for the night. For a moment, Emily just watched her, heart pounding with everything she wanted to say but hadn’t found the courage for yet. She took a deep breath and went to Andrea.
“Andy, stay please” Emily said while grabbing Andrea’s wrist.
Andrea paused, her hand hovering over her bag. She turned to look at Emily, surprised by the urgency in her voice. “Is everything okay?” she said quietly.
Emily hesitated, searching Andrea’s face. Her heart raced, but she knew she couldn’t hold back any longer.
“I just… I don’t want you to go,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “Not tonight. Not after everything. I don’t want you to leave and…” she took a deep breath, trying to gather courage.
“Andrea, you've been here for me since Winnie was born. You were the one who held my hand in the delivery room, who made me feel safe when I was scared and alone. You lifted the weight off me—literally and figuratively; I will remember that first belly lift for life—when I needed it most. “ They both let out a small laugh.
Then Emily added. “I used to think it was just friendship, but somewhere along the way, it became so much more. I realized I missed you when you were gone, not just because you help with the kids or make the house feel full, but because I feel like myself when I’m with you. You make me happy in ways I didn’t think were possible. You stepped into our lives and brought a kind of love and warmth none of us had before. I know now that I like you more than a friend, Andy. I’m scared, but I had to tell you. You’re not just my best friend—you’re the person I want to share everything with.”
Andrea’s eyes shimmered, her breath catching as she listened. For a moment, she was silent, searching Emily’s face as if making sure this was real. Then she let out a shaky laugh, tears bright in her eyes.
“Em, I… I think I’ve been in love with you for a long time. I tried to pretend it was just friendship, too, and for years it was, but then I started to see you with different eyes… It was all the little things—how you laugh in the mornings, how you hold the kids, the way you always know what to say to make me feel better. I’d catch myself wanting to be close to you for no reason, and missing you even when we’d just spent the whole day together. When I was away, all I could think about was coming back to you, not just the house or the kids, but you. And when Browlyn told the receptionist I was your girlfriend, I wished it was true. I was terrified of ruining what we have, but the truth is, I don’t want to imagine my life without you in it this way. You and the kids—you’re my home. I was just so scared to mess it all up.”
For a moment, neither of them would say anything, then Emily tucked a strand of Andrea’s hair behind her ear and said “May I kiss you?”
Andrea’s breath caught, her eyes shining as she nodded. “Yes, please,” she whispered, her voice barely more than a breath. Emily leaned in, her hands trembling just a little as she gently cupped Andrea’s face. Their lips met softly at first, a hesitant brush that quickly deepened. The kiss was slow and careful, filled with all the questions and answers neither had been able to say aloud. Andrea’s hands found Emily’s waist, pulling her closer, and suddenly the world felt softer, quieter—like they’d slipped into a space that belonged only to them. The kiss deepened, growing warmer, and a quiet laugh bubbled up between them as they finally pulled apart. Andrea pressed her forehead to Emily’s, her breath still unsteady, then placed a tender kiss on Emily’s forehead. She smiled, her voice barely above a whisper.
“I’ve waited so long to kiss you; I almost thought it would never happen,” she admitted, her fingers tracing gentle patterns along Emily’s cheek. “But now that it has, I don’t ever want to stop.”
Emily let out a soft, relieved laugh, her arms wrapping around Andrea’s waist, holding her close as if to make up for all the years they’d spent apart in plain sight.
They talked in low voices, laughter bubbling up between them, sometimes falling into thoughtful silences that felt as intimate as a kiss. They both climbed into the bed, and Andrea rested her head on Emily’s chest, and Emily played with a strand of Andrea’s hair, feeling a peace she hadn’t known in years.
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Emily always thought she wasn’t quite made for love. Her past relationships—and especially her marriage with Frank—had only reinforced that belief. Love, to her, had always felt distant, complicated, something reserved for other people. She’d convinced herself that what she had with Frank—a partnership built on routine and convenience—was all she could ever expect or deserve. But Andrea literally turned her world upside down. She never had to ask Andrea for anything—Andrea always seemed to know what she needed before she did. No one had ever sent her flowers before, but Andrea brought them home nearly three times a week, just because a certain bouquet reminded her of Emily. What Emily used to think of as “princess treatment” soon revealed itself to be Andrea’s version of the bare minimum: never letting Emily open a door for herself, always pulling out her chair, tending to small comforts with quiet devotion. With Andrea, care wasn’t a grand gesture—it was simply woven into every ordinary day. Nearly two months after they’d confessed their feelings, Emily found herself completely, undeniably in love with Andrea. It wasn’t a sudden realization, but a quiet certainty that grew with every shared morning, every laugh, every gentle touch. The kids adored Andrea, and Emily had never seen Roak as happy with anyone else—except, perhaps, with her. Andrea’s presence brought out the best in them; their laughter was louder, their smiles wider, and the house felt fuller than it ever had before.
Emily knew, deep inside, that she wanted to keep Andrea forever—even if it sounded selfish, even if she sometimes worried about holding on too tightly. But she also knew, without a doubt, that Andrea was the right person for her and for her family. Andrea never missed a single one of Roak’s football games or Browlyn’s archery competitions; she was always there, cheering the loudest and celebrating every small victory. Even on days when Emily was upset or they found themselves in the middle of an argument, Andrea never let things linger. She always found a way to win Emily’s heart back—sometimes with a quiet apology, other times with a silly joke or a gentle touch. Andrea simply refused to go to sleep with her girlfriend mad at her, believing that love should always end the day with forgiveness and a promise to try again tomorrow.
Andrea became Emily’s anchor in ways she’d never expected, especially when Frank unexpectedly decided to fight for custody of the kids. It was one of the hardest periods of Emily’s life—full of anxiety, sleepless nights, and fear of losing what she’d built. But Andrea never wavered. She was there for every meeting with the lawyer, every tearful conversation after the kids had gone to bed, every moment Emily needed someone to lean on. When the court ruled in Emily’s favor, it was Andrea’s arms she collapsed into, overwhelmed with relief. Even when Frank eventually showed up at their door, not to argue but to apologize, Andrea was there too. He admitted he’d made mistakes, and—surprisingly—told Emily she was lucky to have Andrea and the kids. Forgiveness didn’t come easily, but Emily found it in herself to let go of her anger. After that, Frank started visiting the house once a month, spending time with Browlyn and Roak. The kids never called him “dad” but they accepted him as part of their extended family.
After two years together, Emily was certain she wanted to marry Andrea—though if she was honest, she’d known since their six-month anniversary. That was when Andrea surprised her and the kids with a trip to London to visit Emily’s family. It was more than just a thoughtful gesture; it was Andrea’s way of showing how much she cared about every part of Emily’s life.
During that trip, Andrea finally met Emily’s parents. Emily watched as Andrea charmed them with her kindness and warmth, fitting seamlessly into family dinners and long walks through the city. Her parents saw the change in Emily—how much lighter and happier she was—and it didn’t take long before they embraced Andrea as one of their own. Emily’s mother didn’t say much directly about Andrea to her, but one thing stuck with Emily long after the trip. As they stood together in the kitchen one quiet morning, her mother looked at her with a soft smile and said, “You’ve always been able to shine on your own, Emily. But when you’re with her, it feels like she’s your golden hour.” Those words settled deep in Emily’s heart, making her realize just how much brighter and more alive she felt with Andrea by her side.
The day Emily decided to take the big step was an ordinary Friday, but the house felt unusually warm and alive. The kids were sprawled out in the living room, laughter echoing as they built a fort with Andrea. When Emily walked through the door, the smell of dinner already filled the air, and Andrea, catching sight of her, lit up with that unmistakable golden retriever energy. She crossed the room, pressing a kiss to Emily’s cheek before grinning mischievously at the kids.
“Wait here, baby—and you two monsters, don’t touch the food yet!” Andrea called, disappearing down the hallway.
A moment later, she reappeared, her arms overflowing: a bright bouquet of Emily’s favorite flowers, a sparkly new emerald green bow for Browlyn, and—cradled carefully—a football signed by Saka for Roak.
Browlyn let out a delighted squeal, bolting over and wrapping Andrea in a tight hug. “It’s so pretty! Thank you, Andy!” she gushed, already twisting her hair to try on the bow, her eyes shining.
Roak stared at the football, awe-struck. “No way… Andy, is this really mine? And Saka signed it? That’s so cool!” He ran to Andrea, tears already in his eyes, nearly bowling her over with his enthusiastic hug.
Andrea laughed, ruffling his hair, but then Roak looked up at her, his expression suddenly serious and earnest. “You’re the best second mom in the world, Andy.”
The words seemed to hang in the air, and Andrea froze, tears welling up in her eyes. She knelt down, gathering both kids into her arms, her voice trembling as she whispered, “Thank you, buddy. That means more than you know.” She pressed a kiss to each of their heads, unable to stop the happy tears from slipping down her cheeks.
Emily stood by the doorway, her heart so full it almost hurt. She caught Andrea’s eye and gave her a watery smile, knowing in that moment that everything she’d ever wanted was right there in front of her—a family, laughter, and the kind of love she’d never dared to dream about.
Emily took a lingering look at the bouquet, the vibrant flowers a symbol of all the ordinary, extraordinary love Andrea brought into their lives. She set them carefully on the living room table, her fingers trembling with anticipation. Without a word, she slipped away to her walk-in closet, heart beating in her chest. From the inside pocket of her Chanel coat, she retrieved the small velvet ring box she’d hidden months ago, just waiting for the right moment. Returning to the living room, Emily took a deep breath and sat down beside Andrea and the kids, her hands still shaking. Andrea, still red-eyed and sniffling from Roak’s unexpected declaration, immediately noticed the watery shine in Emily’s eyes.
“What’s wrong, baby?” Andrea asked softly, her voice thick with emotion as she reached out to touch Emily’s cheek.
Emily leaned in and kissed Andrea, right there in front of the kids. Browlyn and Roak immediately chorused, “Ewww!” which only made Emily laugh, nerves mixing with joy. She took a steadying breath, her gaze locked on Andrea.
Emily let out a quiet breath, almost rolling her eyes at herself before she spoke.
"I actually had something prepared. It was concise, well-structured, and significantly less embarrassing than whatever this has become." A small, nervous smile tugged at the corner of her mouth. "Then you looked at me, and now I can't remember a word of it. You're aware this isn't me. I don't do grand declarations. I don't do... this." She gestured vaguely between them, almost apologetically. "But apparently you have this infuriating ability to make me say things I swore I'd never say."
Her gaze never left Andrea's.
"Somewhere along the way, you became my favorite part of every day. My safest place. The person I want beside me when life is wonderful... and when it's a complete disaster."
A tiny laugh escaped her.
"And yes, before you ask, I'm fully aware I'm doing this in front of our children. They'll hold it over my head until they're thirty."
Emily reached for Andrea's hand. She opened the velvet box, looking up at Andrea with a vulnerability she rarely let anyone see.
"So... would you do me the extraordinary honor of putting up with me for the rest of our lives? Will you marry me, Andrea?”
Andrea stared in disbelief, her hands flying to her mouth as tears started to spill over again—this time from pure happiness. For a second, she was completely speechless, heart pounding and cheeks flushed. Then she laughed through her tears, nodding furiously.
“Yes! Yes, of course I will!” Andrea managed, her voice breaking with emotion. She pulled Emily up from the floor and into her arms, holding her tight, barely able to believe the moment was real.
The kids burst into cheers and giggles, jumping up and down with excitement. They threw their arms around Emily and Andrea, wrapping them in a tight family hug.
As the laughter settled, Browlyn looked up at Andrea with hopeful eyes and asked, “So… we can officially call you Mom, Andy?”
Andrea’s eyes filled with happy tears once more, and she nodded, smiling through her emotion. “Yeah, sweetheart. I’d love that.”
Emily’s heart overflowed with love as she looked at the family gathered around her. In that moment, she knew with absolute certainty that this—Andrea by her side, the kids laughing and hugging them—was all she had ever wanted in life.