At a small birthday party at Pinecrest, Rosalie sat at the head of the table, watching Naomi laugh with the catering staff while Manuel held the baby, who was tugging at his tie.

He came over and set his hand on the table near hers, waiting — as he always did — for her to reach first. Rosalie covered his hand with her own and smiled.

“You’re overthinking again,” Manuel said softly.

“One of my most persistent habits,” she admitted, with a small laugh.

“My favorite part of you,” he said.

THE END.