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Won’t Go Slowly - Epilogue

A/N: Thank you all SO SO much for sticking with me. I have a lot of emotions about this one, and I’m so glad I could finish this story. I apologize in advance for any errors - I’ll likely have to correct things later, but I wanted to get this up!

One // Two // Three // Four // Five // Six // Seven // Eight // Nine // Ten // Eleven // Twelve // Thirteen // Fourteen // Fifteen // Sixteen // Seventeen // Eighteen // Nineteen// Twenty // Twenty One // Twenty Two // Twenty Three // Twenty Four// Twenty Five // Twenty Six // Twenty Seven // Twenty Eight // Twenty Nine // Thirty // Thirty One // Thirty Two // Thirty Three // Thirty Four// Thirty Five // Thirty Six // Thirty Seven // Thirty Eight // Thirty Nine // Forty // Forty One // Forty Two // Forty Three // Forty Four // Forty Five // Forty Six // Forty Seven // Forty Eight // Forty Nine // Fifty // Fifty One // Fifty Two // Fifty Three // Fifty Four // Fifty Five // Fifty Six // Fifty Seven // Fifty Eight // Fifty Nine // Sixty// Sixty One // Sixty // Sixty One // Sixty Two // Sixty Three// Sixty Four// Sixty Five // Sixty Six // Sixty Seven // Sixty Eight// Sixty Nine

Just when you thought it might stop, it started again, and you wracked your brain, trying to identify just where it was coming from and what it might be.

"What is that?" You asked into the dark, not even needing to move to check if Tyler was awake. That's your kid," he said, your eyebrows furrowing as you listened.

"Are you sure it's not one of the dogs?"

Tyler rolled over on his side to face you, his eyebrows raised as if to gesture towards the fact that all the dogs were in the room with you. "Your kid," he repeated as if he needed to clarify.

You sighed, pushing yourself up off the bed, Marshall looking at you like you'd disturbed him.

"I'll go," Tyler said, pushing his arm between yours. "If you go, he's gonna get too hyped."

Still, you sat up a little anyway, knowing that Bentley had been great about being in bed in Dallas but seemed a little confused about the rules here. Tyler gave you a look and you shifted, occupying yourself with petting the dogs as he headed out of the room.

You listened intently but all you could hear was the timbre of Tyler's voice, knowing that while Bentley was good at staying in his bed when you were in Dallas, he didn't seem to realize the same rules applied here. When it quiets you let your body relax, adjusting the blankets and stretching out your legs just slightly now that you have the space in bed to do so.

You were a little surprised to hear Tyler's footsteps coming back towards the bedroom until you heard a small voice say "Mommy."

"Yeah, Mommy's sleeping right now, it's still nighttime, remember?" Tyler said, his voice gentle yet firm, the tone indicating that they'd already had this discussion, and you took that as your cue to pretend you were sound asleep. "'K, if you want to lie down in the big bed you have to close your eyes."

There was no response, but you felt the tiny body crawl between your and Tyler's pillow, the mattress moving as he tried to get comfortable. You didn't allow yourself to open your eyes until you felt him settle, sharing a small smile with Tyler, his head resting back on his pillow. When you woke again it was from the sun streaming through the windows, Tyler's eyes opening slowly as though he'd heard you wake up. His eyes looked sleepy, but he raised his eyebrows, indicating you should get up. The dogs followed you, Tyler putting out their breakfast and starting a pot of coffee while you let them out, gazing out over the lake as you waited.

You grinned as you felt strong arms wrap around you, and a kiss pressed to your temple.

"We should shower before he wakes up," Tyler said softly, his lips trailing along your neck as if to reveal his true intentions.

"Oh?" You asked, letting yourself sink into his touch.

"Mhmm," Tyler mumbled against your skin, "because I don't think I've gotten you alone up in that bed in...forever."

"Well-"

"Shh.." Tyler said, his lips still pressed against your neck. "C'mon, when was the last time you got to shower alone?"

"Somehow I have the feeling I'm not going to be showering alone," you said.

Tyler gave you a smirk. "..and?"

"I thought that was the appeal."

Tyler scrunched up his face, gesturing down his body. "Uh, no, this is the appeal."

You snorted out a laugh, his boxer shorts hung low on his hips, his hair messy as it always was in the morning and the end of the day.

"Not fucking funny." He mumbled, pressing into you, his hands gripping your ass as he pulled you to him, connecting his lips to yours, you only parting for a breath when you felt a cold nose press into your bare leg.

"I'll just get them water," you said, kissing Tyle88r once more as you tried to pull away.

"I'll do it," Tyler said, his hand gripping and then pulling away from your hip, "Go get the shower started."

"I just put it up," you protested.

"I like it down," he countered8, weaving his hands through your tresses and using them to pull you to him, his other hand trailing down your bare side as he pressed you against the counter. "This is nice."

You laughed at the way he was handling your body like he was admiring a new outfit, his hand still tangled in your hair as he tried to distract you with his mouth.

"I don't want to get it wet," you protested, "it'll take too long."

"Oh, you're gonna be wet, don't even worry about it."

You rolled your eyes, even as your hands went to his bare torso, pushing him back, him moving as you could move his body out of the way.

"I don't want to waste time," you explained, a kiss to his hip bone as you knelt before him, fingers dipping into that waistband that kept him hidden from you, loving the way his abs still immediately tensed under your touch.

"Baby..." Tyler exhaled, your kisses continuing along his warm skin, your lips going to place a kiss on his cock.

"Mmhm?" You asked, your hands gripping his thighs.

"I..." Tyler said, "I.. forgot what the fuck I was gonna say."

You laughed, sitting back on your heels, Tyler's head tilted as he looked at you for a moment, and then he was somehow hauling you up. "You drive me crazy, " he said, pulling you into him, his lips attaching to your neck, "the way you stand on your tip-toes to undo the latch to let the dogs out, and the little bit of skin that shows when you turn over in your sleep.."

You shivered as his fingers ran over that soft part just above your hip, curving inwards, your body opening up as he moved his hand between your legs. Now you were leaning back towards the counter on purpose for support, his fingers running between your legs but not touching you where you wanted it.

"Tyler," you breathed, his fingers dipping inside your core, and your breath caught as he pushed one digit inside, your muscles clamping down as if to keep him there body .it wasn't long enough, though, before he moved his fingers, just fluttering against your clutch and sending tingles throughout your body.

"Mhm?" He echoed your body pleading in a way your words couldn't.

"Just," you said, trying to angle your body so that you could be touched in a way that you knew would feel good.

"Mmm.." he muttered, pressing into you, all the same, your back arching deliciously, his lips moving back against your neck. "Don't know if I can get you pregnant like this though."

"Tyler," you laughed in shock.

"What? You said-"

"I said we could start trying at the end of summer," you said, looking into his eyes now, your hand on his chest, the timeliness you'd 8talked about in mind, trying to coordinate it with the hockey season, wondering if he was changing his mind now. "I still have my IUD in..'"

"I know," he said, "but I need practice."

You laughed despite yourself. "You do not."

"Mhmm.." he mumbled to you, "gotta get even better."

And although you could have argued with that , you let him take you into his arms, moving you into the shower, and you let yourself focus for just a moment on the contrast between his warm skin and the water on your body. His mouth moved to your neck, sucking in the way you liked, and you let your back arching into him, pressing your breasts against his body.

He was already teasing your entrance, your breath catching in your throat before he was even inside you.

"Please," you said, the slow times when you could savor each other rarely now, and you just wanted to feel him. You felt his lips quirk he thought, knowing he wanted to trade you, but thankful he gave into his feeling, moving into you in a familiar way that still filled your body with warmth every time. You could hardly hear the sharp intake of Tyler's breath but you felt it.

"God, it's so good," he muttered, which made it even better, your body tingling as he pressed into you. His mouth moved over yours in a way that you knew was meant to keep you quiet but you couldn't resist breathing into him, his teeth capturing your lip when you couldn't keep your composure enough to kiss him any longer.

He broke away momentarily, head dipping lower, licking at the swelling of your breasts.

"Tyler," you painted, "please."

"Yeah, I got you," his hand trailing between your bodies, his gaze hot on you as his body worked. You forced yourself to keep your eyes open until you couldn't anymore, giving into the sensations, your hands reaching down and gripping him once you released, his face buried in your neck as he released.

You could still see a hint of that look as he looked over the breakfast table towards you although it was softer now, not like the pinch he'd snuck in on your butt when you tried to flip the pancakes. Your gaze shifted when Bentley squealed and you shared a smile with Tyler, not even needing to look to know that Bentley had one hand extended below the table, letting the dogs fight for position to lick the syrup off his fingers.

But it wasn't long before the quiet morning was interrupted by the cries of a toddler once again.

"What's wrong, bud?" Tyler asked, while you were already standing up to get a wet cloth.

"He doesn't like his hands dirty," you said, going over to wipe his hands clean.

"Well don't put your fingers in your food, goof," Tyler said.

"Goof," Bentley repeated, his lips turned up in a smile like he understood the teasing of the word.

"No, you're the goof," Tyler said, smacking kisses on Bentley's cheek until the kitchen was filled with giggles and the sound of happy paws.

"'K, finish your breakfast," you said softly, wanting to take advantage of the fact you had Tyler with you for the morning, "then we can go for a walk before it gets too hot. And we'll tire you out so hopefully, you'll have an n-a-p before Grandma gets here."

Tyler's eyebrows raised as his eyes drifted towards Bentley oblivious to the plans that were laid out before him. Before you sat back down, Tyler was using Bentley's abandoned fork to scoop up his next bite.

"No, I do it," Bentley said adamantly, pushing Tyler's arm out of the way.

"Oh, sorry," Tyler said joking, "I forgot you were all grown up."

"It's okay," Bentley said calmly like you did to reassure him when he got going too fast and tripped over his own feet.

You and Tyler both stifled a laugh, while Bentley sat back, munching his pancakes happily.

"These are good pancakes, Mommy," Tyler said, looking at Bentley as if prompting him.

"Mhmm!" Bentley agreed, his mouth still full.

"I'm glad you like them," you said, thankful you had frozen fruit stashed and pancake mix, "we need to go grocery shopping, huh?"

"Well, you wouldn't have to if-" Tyler started, to which you gave him a look because he had wanted to get a concierge service to set up the house to make things easier but you were set on managing things yourself. At least while you were home.

"Do you need anything for breakfast?" You asked Tyler.

"I like breakfast," Bentley replied matter-of-factly, to which you and Tyler smiled.

"I know you do," you said, smiling at him as you added a couple of things to your list on your phone. "What do you think we should have for lunch? "

"Grilled cheese," Tyler answered, even though you were directing the question toward Bentley.

"Yeah!" Bentley said, looking up at you like he was ready to be served his second meal.

"No," you said slowly, making a face.

"Yes," Tyler whispered, his head nodding erratically, Bentley mimicking him and erupting into giggles.

"Okay, okay," you gave in, ruffling Bentley's hair as you walked by. "You guys gotta make them though."

"We can make them while you're at the store," Tyler said easily. "Unless you want us to come with you."

"You can stay here," you said, always wanting the two of them to have more time together, but mouthing towards Tyler "but try to have a nap."

"No nap!" Bentley said emphatically, causing Gerry to jump up, his tailing batting against the table in excitement.

"Okay, okay," you laughed, turning the tap on so you could get started cleaning up the dishes, "let's get ready so we can go outside, crazy boys."

"I can get it later," Tyler said, moving in behind you, his lips moving so gently against your neck, arms wrapping around you as you gazed out the window. "Let's go play."

You tried to suppress the shiver that ran through your body with the close contact and his words, knowing your son was right there.

"You know I can be a crazy boy too," Tyler whispered in your ear, giggling before you even had a chance to react.

"Ty," you chided, biting your lip to try not to laugh as you pushed his hands away, the sound of the chair being pushed across the tile echoing throughout the kitchen.

"Careful," you warned, Bentley on his stomach on the chair now, slowly lowering his feet to the floor, his little breaths heavy with the effort.

"Good job," Tyler said once Bentley's feet touched the floor, already running off to find something else to do. "Oh, you better run fast, or I'm gonna get you."

The giggles started before Tyler even moved, Gerry and then Cash darting off after them both, Marshall shooting you a quick look as if he was contemplating if he was getting too old for this before he followed, too.

The giggles grew louder as they circled back, Bentley tossed over Tyler's shoulder now. "Oh, Hi, Mom," Tyler said, holding Bentley upside down, "how are you?"

"I'm good," you laughed, leaning in to kiss him, "how are you?"

"Oh, Spiderman kisses," Tyler said, continuing to play with Bentley in the way Dads do, which made you nervous yet you couldn't deny the way Bentley was laughing and squealing.

It was much more your speed to be sat out on the driveway later, sidewalk chalk and coloured scribbles surrounding you.

"What are you drawing?" Tyler asked Bentley, looking over Bentley's shoulder.

"A sky," Bentley answered, pressing his piece of chalk so hard into the pavement you were certain it was going to break.

"Oh, a purple sky, that's original," Tyler said.

"It's pretty," you added, "should we add some clouds?"

"Yeah, clouds," Bentley agreed, seemingly going to work on what resembled clouds in his mind.

"I'll get the grass," Tyler said, looking over the selection of chalk. "What color is the grass?"

"Umm...green," Bentley answered, Tyler looking over the selection of chalk.

"Where is the green?" He asked.

Bentley sighed as he stood up as if it required too much effort and then crouched down in the way toddlers do, sorting to find Tyler a green.

"Good job," you said once he found it, after debating for a moment between the blue and green.

"Thank you," Tyler said, scribbling some blades of grass. "What are you drawing, Mommy?"

"A puppy dog," you answered, leaning over to pet Marshall, always nearby you, Gerry butting in for attention.

"Ger," Tyler laughed, wrestling him away, Gerry's tail indicating he was ready to play.

"He wants my ball!" Bentley exclaimed, running off to get one of the many tennis balls that were strewn throughout the yard. Which most certainly were the dogs and were around before Bentley was even a thought, but everything belonged to him now.

And, just like that, all your boys were running off again, leaving you to color quietly while you listened to them play.

It wasn't too long though before your littlest one came back, leaning down next to you, doodling once more, Tyler playing with the dogs nearby.

"Do you know what dog I'm drawing?" You asked him, letting him investigate for a moment. "What color is it?"

"Yellow!" Bentley declared, "it Gerry!"

"Yeah," you encouraged me. "And what color would I need to draw Cash?"

"A black?"

"Yeah, that's right, he's a black lab. And what color is Marshall?"

"Chocolate," Bentley answered.

"Chocowate," Tyler initiated with a smile and you laughed, also wondering where Bentley had heard either of you refer to Marshall as a chocolate lab.

"What color is chocolate?" You asked.

"Brown, " Bentley answered immediately.

"Good job," Tyler said. "How do you get so smart?"

"I don't know," Bentley answered matter-of-factly, causing both you and Tyler to laugh.

"Is it because Mommy helps you practice lots?" Tyler asked, his attention mostly focused on Bentley, yet giving you that look out of the corner of his eye like he just couldn't keep his eyes off you, his lips turned up just slightly into a smile, a sight you were pretty sure you'd never get tired of seeing. "Are you getting ready for preschool?"

"I don't know if I'm ready for that," you said.

"You will be," Tyler said, giving you a knowing look, and looking back down at Bentley's chalk drawing. "Those are cool clouds."

"No, I draw Mommy," Bentley said, your heart melting until Tyler spoke.

"But Mommy has big boobs," Tyler said, grabbing a piece of chalk himself and drawing two exaggerated "u"'s on the scribble that was supposed to indicate you.

"Boobs," Bentley repeated, which only made Tyler laugh even harder, Bentley even going as far as to point at Tyler's drawing.

"Tyler!" You scolded me.

"What?" He asked as if he had no idea what might have bothered you.

"You know what," you laughed.

"It's not like it's a bad word," Tyler said, "That's how he ate for a year."

"I know, but," you said, thinking about how you didn't exactly want your 2-year-old yelling out "boobs!" in the grocery store, even though you knew that would bring much amusement to Tyler.

"Hey, that's what I'm here for, y'know?" Tyler said, "Someone's gotta teach him these things, that's why you like having kids with me, remember?"

And you smiled because that was true, but you also liked the way he always encouraged Bentley to try new things, the way he demonstrated the importance of a simple thank you, and not taking things too seriously.

You tried to think of the words then, but your thoughts were otherwise interrupted by the sound of wheels on the gravel, a brief interruption to your summertime oasis.

"Oh, who's that?" Tyler asked, Bentley looking over to you as if you had the answer.

"Who did we say we were gonna see today?" You asked him, "do you remember?"

"Grandma!" Bentley exclaimed although you were pretty sure it was due to him being able 4o see who was in the car rather than relying on his memory. Tyler moved his hand from around Bentley once the car turned off, signaling that Bentley could go say hi, the dogs following suit and running after him.

"Hi!" Jackie said brightly, already bending down, her arms extended towards Bentley and wrapping him up in a huge hug. "Oh, I missed you. Yes, I missed you guys, too," she said to the dogs.

You were so caught up in watching them that you almost didn't notice Tyler's hand extended towards you to help you up, relishing in the way his fingers curled around yours, something you didn't get to do quite as often anymore., which only made each time you did more special.

"Mom!" Tyler yelled suddenly, imitating Bentley as he ran towards her, arms extended in the air.

"Don't jump on me," she cautioned, which only made Tyler motion as he might. "Tyler."

You smiled at the way Tyler laughed, hugging her too. "What? I'm not allowed to miss you too?"

"Well, you are but..."

"I won't jump on you, I promise," you said, sliding your way in, "I know what it's like, I've got these boys jumping on me all day too."

Tyler raised his eyebrows slyly towards you, a smirk spreading across his face.

"Between the dogs and the little one," you clarified, which made Tyler laugh under his breath.

"And me," Tyler said, your face suddenly turning red from more than the sun, his arms aching around your shoulders and jumping on as if you'd invited him for a piggyback ride in one motion, knocking you off balance, though he steadied you both with his foot before he really hung on.

"Tyler!" You squealed, trying to regain your balance with a full grown man hanging off you, yet biting your lip trying hard not to laugh at the discerning look Bentley was giving you both, like hasn't quite sure if this behavior was allowed.

"What? You've got it," he said, your hands instinctively reaching back to try and stop him from moving around so much, Tyler reaching around and planting playful kisses on your cheek.

"Careful," Jackie cautioned like you were teenagers who might knock over a lamp rather than adults yourself and would only end up falling on the ground, laughing the whole time.

"Careful...Cash!" Bentley said, climbing atop ash's back just like Tyler was to you, your eyes flicking over to see if Tyler was noticing the way Bentley was imitating him, seeking his attention. Bentley pushed himself off just as quickly as he got on, turning his attention to the chocolate lab. "Careful Marshall!"

"Okay, we can't have to be gentle with the dogs' ears, remember? It might hurt them if we pull," you said, watching as Bentley slid off Marshall's back. "We also probably shouldn't jump on someone because we don't want to hurt them."

"Cash can handle it," Tyler said, "He's thick."

"Tyler," you scolded, leaning down to pat Cash.

"Sorry, Marshall," Bentley said, wrapping his arms around the dog's stomach, and then heading towards Cash, his giggles growing more and more pronounced as he traveled from dog to dog. "Sorry, Cash, Sorry Gerry."

"What did you do to Gerry?" Tyler laughed, Bentley continuing to pet the dogs.

"I can't believe he knows all their names," Jackie said, to which Tyler gave her a weird look.

"He's been around them his whole life, "dog" was, like, one of his first five words," Tyler said, pushing past her to get the bags she was reaching for, "He knew their names before yours."

She shot him a look to which Tyler responded with a laugh.

"I can take one," you offered, reaching for one of the bags in Tyler's hands. You'd learned long ago that telling Jackie she didn't need to bring anything for dinner wasn't effective.

"I got it, you watch the kid," Tyler said. "Actually Grandma's here, we're off the clock."

Jackie laughed, her hand moving to Bentley's back, her gaze moving over the sidewalk. "Were you doing some drawing?"

"Mhm," Bentley confirmed, "a sun, a cloud, a grass..."

"We're not too sure what this is though," kicking at the obnoxious depiction of your chest with his shoe.

"Mommy!" Bentley said, pointing, and Tyler laughed.

"You want to go show Grandma your toys in the backyard?" Tyler asked.

"C'mon, guys!" Bentley said, all of you biting back a laugh.

"I forgot how cute he is," Jackie said, your heart feeling just a twinge of guilt that she didn't get to see him more often.

"Obviously, have you seen how cute I am?" Tyler said.

"He may be just a little bit cuter than you were," Jackie said.

"Were?" Tyler asked, in mock outrage.

"You're so sassy today," you laughed.

"Mmm...just happy," Tyler said, leaning over to place a kiss on your temple. "Had a great morning."

"What did we do this morning, Bentley?" You deferred.

"Mmm..pancakes," Bentley said, bouncing now, "And play."

"We went to the park, right?"

"Mhmm."

"Did you go on the slide?" Jackie asked.

"Yes, and swings!" Bentley said.

"Oh wow, did you go high?"

"So high!" Bentley exclaimed, his hands extended above his head now.

"Were you scared?"

Bentley shook his head adamantly. "Oh, and, Grandma, umm, Grandma.."

"Yes, honey," Jackie said, laughing under her breath, all of you waiting expectantly for what he was trying to say.

"I went on an airplane!"

"Oh, I know you were coming on an airplane," Jackie said, matching his excitement. "Was it fun?"

"Yeah, I went on an airplane today!" Bentley exclaimed.

"Well, we went on an airplane yesterday," you clarified, looking into Bentley's eyes, which were studying you in thought, "Remember, because we came home after the airplane and slept at night."

"Oh, yeah!" Bentley agreed now.

"And what is that on your arm?" Jackie asked, leaning in now and giving him her full interest.

Bentley frowned, investigating his own arm. "A tattoo!"

"Oh wow," Jackie said, indulging Bentley's desire to show off the temporary tattoo that was extremely difficult to put on a busy toddler but that he was very proud of nonetheless.

"Who else has tattoos like you?" Tyler asked Bentley.

Bentley's face lit up at the thought of being like Tyler, his little hand pointing enthusiastically toward Tyler's tattooed arms.

"Well, yeah," Tyler laughed, "I meant other than me. Who else has tattoos who lives here?"

"Uncle Jamie!" Bentley answered, his mind clearly still in Dallas.

"Well, yeah," Tyler laughed, "but who lives in Canada?"

At Bentley's puzzled face, Tyler prompted, "Grandpa!"

"Grandpa!" Bentley repeated.

"You'll have to show him when you see him, " you added, "I bet he'll think it's really cool."

Bentley examined his tattoo with satisfaction, and you suspected you'd be going through many temporary tattoos this summer, making a mental note to order some more. "And...and, and.Auntie Brooke!"

"Auntie Brooke has tattoos too, you're right," you laughed.

"And Bentley!" Bentley said.

"And Bentley too," you agreed.

"And Fishy," Bentley said, his eyes trained on you to which Tyler snorted out a laugh. He was, of course, referring to the goldfish that Tyler had on him at the state fair mere days before you were set to return to Canada, which Tyler had figured he'd forget about, but instead had led to a couple of days discussion about why it wasn't the best idea bring a five-cent goldfish on an international flight with you.

"Yes, Auntie Brooke is taking good care of your fishy."

"Oh yeah, we have a new family member," Tyler told his mom. "His name is Fishy. Or her. We're not really sure."

Jackie's smile matched the amusement you'd shown when you'd had to find a salad bowl to put "Fishy" in while Tyler ran out to get a proper goldfish bowl and fish food from the pet store.

"Bentley named him," you said.

"Well, Fishy is a great name for a fish," Jackie said.

"It was Y/N's suggestion," Tyler said.

"It was not my idea, " you laughed, to which Tyler gave you a look. "I asked him what he wanted to name his fishy."

"Yeah," Tyler said, "your idea."

"My Fishy eat," Bentley said.

You laughed, the feeding of his fish becoming a part of your daily routine, right after you'd fed the dogs. "Yes, Auntie Brooke will feed Fishy," you said, seeing the look on your toddler's face, and becoming thankful for this responsibility this had given him. "I'll send her a message just to remind her."

It wasn't long after that your phone rang with a FaceTime call and you took it over to where Bentley was now playing with Jackie with his water table.

"Someone's calling you," you said to him, crouching down to his level, watching his reaction as you answered the call.

"Hey, Benny," Brooke said brightly, "Your fish wanted to see you on the phone?"

"Yes!" Bentley said happily.

"Can you say 'hi' to Auntie Brooke first?" You asked, smoothing your hand over his hair.

"Hi, Auntie Brooke!" Bentley said happily.

"Hi, how are you?"

"I good," Bentley said.

"Oh, good," Brooke said, "Well Fishy is being very well-behaved, I just fed him this morning. I just feed him once a day, right?"

Bentley looked at you for confirmation, and you nodded, "He just eats in the morning, right?"

"One time!" Bentley instructed, his finger held up to indicate such.

"Okay, I got it," Brooke promised, indulging the toddler, "ill write it down so I don't forget, okay?"

At Bentley's emphatic agreement, Brooke flipped the camera around, letting him see the little orange fish swimming in circles around his bowl.

"Hi, Fishy!" Bentley said.

"Oh, can I see Fishy?" Jackie asked.

"Yes, Grandma, look!" Bentley said, his finger outreach towards the screen.

Tyler snickered as Jackie pulled out her glasses, and putting them on. "Oh, wow."

"Is he still swimming?" Tyler asked.

"Yes," Bentley said, bobbing his head back and forth as if to his own music, "Swimming, swimming, swimming."

Without skipping a beat, both you and Tyler chimed in, "Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming."

Bentley laughed, launching himself into your arms.

"It looks like they're taking good care of Fishy, he looks happy," Tyler told Bentley, "although I'm sure he misses you."

"Oh, he's doing great," Jamie said, "we're gonna have him sleep in bed with us tonight."

"Don't be such a dad," Tyler said, his smile giving away his amusement.

"Okay, bye bye!" Bentley said, letting everyone know he was done talking and ready to get back to playing, clueless as to why the adults were laughing.

"Can you say 'thank you to Auntie Brooke for calling you so you could see Fishy? " Tyler asked Bentley, "it was really nice of her to do that."

"Yes, thank you!" Bentley said into the screen, "see you soon!"

You laughed at the way he had learned to end calls, feeling just a tug at your heartstrings thinking about why he'd learned that.

But, nonetheless, Bentley moved on, tapping at Tyler's hand. "Can you open that?"

"Open what?" Tyler asked, crouching down to see where Bentley was pointing. "The shed? You want to get your sports stuff out?"

At Bentley's nod, Tyler stood up, "Okay, but you gotta come help me, I don't think I can do it by myself."

You and Jackie watched as Tyler and Bentley crossed the lawn, Gerry reaching Bentley's side as Tyler unlatched the door. You smiled when Tyler made a big show about the door being too heavy for him to budge, waiting for Bentley to start pulling on it before he opened it properly.

You half expected them to come out with the little motorized vehicle that was stored inside, but Bentley emerged with a plastic bat slung over his shoulder.

"What are you gonna play?" Jackie asked Bentley.

Bentley looked at his grandma and suddenly dropped his bat, extending his arm out in his best intimidation of a baseball umpire. "Play ball!"

"He's so into it right now," you told Jackie, "Tyler's got him all these hockey sticks and golf clubs but it's just baseball, baseball, baseball. He's even got Tyler watching it on T.V."

"I like baseball," Tyler said, coming out of the shed now carrying a tee and a handful of Wiffle balls.

"Well, I've never seen you watch it before, it's always hockey," you said. Which had been in the background of your life for several years, really

"Well, hockey isn't on in the summer," Tyler said, grinning teasingly at you before tossing the balls on the grass. "It's kind of an ice sport."

"You know what I mean," you said, Tyler's face breaking into a smile.

"I will watch any sport he wants with him," Tyler promised. "It's way better than CocoMelon or Paw Patrol. Except maybe curling."

"You would so watch curling if he was into it," you said.

"Well, yeah," Tyler gave in, smiling, "id just prefer something a little more...competive."

"Im sure it can be competitive," you said.

"You'd make it competitive," Jackie said, "you'd set up a whole little curling...whatever its called on your basketball court if thats what he was into."

"Rink, curling rink," Tyler enunciated, "geez, youd think you guys knew nothing about sports."

"Well, I don't.. "

"Come on, like you hhaven't spent a good part of the last ten years in an ice rink," Tyler teased.

"That doesn't mean I know what's going on," you said.

"Oh, whatever," Tyler gawker, his grin giving him away, "I see you watching."

"But if we pretend that we don't know what's going on," Jackie said, "then we can just have wine and watch.

While you nodded your agreement, Tyler looked at his watch exageratedly. "Well, you made it 15 minutes without breaking into my wine stash, that might be a new record."

"I know, the cute grandkid is a distraction."

Tyler's eyes connected with yours briefly, raising his eyebrows. "Yeah, we kinda make cute kids."

With Bentley pulling Tyler away to play, you and Jackie went inside to grab wine for the adults, forgoing "kid wine" for Bentley because he had requested "gatorade" in his water bottle.

As you did so, you watched them through the windows, Tyler bending down repeatedly to pick up the ball as Bentley knocked the bat against the tee before he even managed to get set up to take a swing at the ball.

"Oh, the things we do for our kids," Jackie said.

"Right?" You said, propping the door open for her to walk through with your foot, nodding towards the scene closer to the lake. "I think in his mind though, he's really playing baseball. He comes in from playing with Tyler all excited to tell me about how he hit the ball so far."

"Oh, yeah, I cheered for a lot of goals that Tyler was convinced he scored but that i saw roll right by the net," Jackie said.

At your snicker, Tyler asked, "what are you girls laughing at?"

"Nothing," you said teasingly, handing him his drink.

"Thanks, babe," he said, leaning over to kiss your cheek just briefly.

"You're welcome," you responsed, bending down to hand Bentley his water bottle. "Here you go, slugger."

Bentley paused, looking up at Tyler.

"Slugger is like a cool word for a baseball player," Tyler explained.

"Slugger," Bentley repeated under his breath, as if he was trying to memorize the word, you and Tyler sharing a smile, before he took a sip. "Thanks, Mama."

"You are so welcome," you said, watching as Bentley crouched down, setting his water bottle down carefully and then trying to set his ball on the tee, his coordination not quite there yet.

"Oh, darnit," he said under his breath, both you and Tyler trying not to laugh.

"Do you want some help?" Tyler asked gently, Bentley pressing his ball into his hands.

"'K, here's your bat," you said, extending it towards him.

"Hold it with two hands like I showed you, remember?" Tyler prompted, Bentley pulling his tongue between his lips as he concentrated.

You sat down as watched as Bentley swung heavily towards the ball, several feet behind it, almost knocking him off balance.

"Good try," Tyler encouraged, "keep looking at the ball though, that'll help you hit it."

"Oh, good job, that was so close," Tyler said as Bentley tried again, Tyler looking over his shoulder towards you, " I told him to keep his eye on the ball, and he was, like, bent over trying to put his eye on the ball," Tyler said, laughing as he imitated him.

While you caught up with Tyler's mom, you watched as Tyler crouched behind Bentley, helping him to get the motion for hitting the ball, a big move for your fiercely independent toddler.

So you all saw when he tipped the ball of the tee, jumping up and down in excitment, you and Jackie clapping your hands and cheering.

"Now that needs a high five," Tyler said, extending his hand out, Bentley putting his entire body into slapping Tyler's hand. Tyler shot you a quick look, shakinrgz r g his hand out. "Want to try again?"

It took him a few more attempts before he was successful again, this time hitting the ball more solidly, so that it skidded across the grass.

"Oh, wow, I think..." Tyler started, looking out at the ball and then back at Bentley, "Yep, that's a home run!"

Before Bentley could respond, Tyler had moved towards him. "We gotta run!" He said, hoisting Bentley up, settling him on his shoulder. "Put your arms up!"

When Bentley obliged, Tyler started making a lap around the yard, Bentley bouncing on his shoulders. They looped by you and Jackie, Tyler bending down so Bentley could give high fives, eventually depositing Bentley back down next to the bat.

"You do it," Bentley said next, thrusting the bat towards Tyler.

"Oh, is it my turn?" Tyler asked.

"Yes, you try," Bentley said.

"Okay, look out," Tyler said, Bentley moving out of the way, Tyler making a big show out of stepping up to the plate. "Should I hit it out of the air or off the tee?"

"Off the tee," Bentley said.

"Eh, I think I can hit it out of the air," Tyler said.

"It's baseball, not hockey," you called.

"It's all hand-eye coordination, babe," Tyler said, you rolling your eyes at his wink, a smile on your face. He turned back, shifting his hips back and forth as he got ready.

"Is she watching me, Mom?" He called out over his shoulder, Jackie laughing as she looked at you.

"Yeah, she's watching," she responded, your cheeks growing warm as if you'd been caught and you could feel Tyler's gloating grin even though his back was still turned to you.

"He's such a show-off," you said, to which Jackie laughed even louder. And, of course, Tyler tossed the wiffle ball into the air, waiting for it to drop down before he took an easy swing with the plastic bat, the ball sailing out over the yard, landing in the lake, causing Gerry to take off running after it.

"Run! Run!" Bentley shouted.

Tyler grinned, taking off in a jog around the yard, his arms raised in celebration. When he turned back though, Bentley was crying and you were crouched at his side, Jackie leaning in.

"What's happened?" Tyler asked.

You looked at Bentley, wondering if he might respond. "My ball is all wet!" He said.

"It's okay," you repeated, holding the ball out in front of him. "We'll put it up on the railing and the sun will dry it off by tomorrow. "

"Here," Tyler said, taking the ball from you and drying it off on his shirt, handing it to Bentley who pushed it away with a whine. Tyler crouched down in front of him, the ball still in his hand. "You know what? I bet you must be getting hungry from all that baseball playing. Are you hungry?"

Bentley took a shuddering breath through his tears, seeming to think it through. "Yes."

"Why don't I start the burgers and you go inside and get a snack? Do you want a snack?"

"Okay," Bentley nodded.

"'K, I'll put your ball out to dry while you go inside. Can you show Grandma where we put the snacks?"

When Bentley and Jackie went towards the door, Bentley asking his grandma if she was hungry too, you turned to Tyler. "Nice save."

"Yeah, well he gets like you when you need a snack," Tyler quipped.

"I'm gonna throw you in the lake," you gawked.

"Mhmm," Tyler grinned. "I'd love to see you try."

Mentally accepting his challenge, you were glad that dinner went smoothly, averting any tantrums, meaning that your evening went as expected, Tyler starting the fire. You were tidying up, sinking into dreams of the summer ahead,Bentley making his way down from the deck, apparently just noticing what Tyler was doing.

"Daddy!" He called, running at full force across the grass. "Daddy!"

"Ty?" You called, unsure if he'd heard him, Bentley picking up speed as he ran towards the firepit.

Tyler turned as Bentley exclaimed "Uncle Dada!", and you heard Tyler say " Hey, bud," bending down to scoop Bentley up when he got close.7

"I think he thinks that's your full name," you said, moving in behind them.

"I know," Tyler grinned at you, adjusting Bentley on his hip. "I kind of love it."

It wasn't long before the fire had grown, and you are arranging the s'mores supplies, Bentley becoming increasingly interested.

"It's candy?" He asked, pointing at the marshmallows.

"Yeah, those are marshmallows," You said.

"Like we've had hot chocolate," Tyler added.

"Ooooh," Bentley said, running his hand over the bag, drawing snickers from the adults.

"We're gonna cook them over the fire tonight though," you said, "Do you want to try?"

"Yes!" Bentley said excitedly, knees bending as he jumped up and down. He watched as you threaded the marshmallows onto the stick and you soaked in this summary moment you'd dreamed about.

"Do you want Daddy to help you cook them?" You asked, Bentley nodding,

"That's a good idea," Tyler said, taking the stick from you, Bentley still holding onto it. "Mommy sucks at roasting marshmallows."

"Mommy sucks," Bentley repeated.

"No, no, Mommy doesn't suck," Tyler said quickly, and then seemed to hear what he said, smirking as he looked up at you. "Well, Mommy does suck sometimes."

"Tyler," you hissed under your breath, his giggles ringing out at your reaction.

But your mood softened as you watched Tyler crouch down, Bentley learning against him as he explained how to roast the perfect marshmallow. The fire illuminated their faces as you went back to sit down next to Jackie, the crackling of the fire and the timbre of Tyler's voice becoming background noise.

After they'd checked the marshmallows several times, you began setting out the chocolate and Graham wafers. Tyler bent down to whisper something in Bentley's ear and you watched Bentley's reaction, him immediately making his way over to you.

"Mama," he said, placing his hands on your legs, "You want one?"

"Oh, did you make me a s'more?" You asked, Bentley nodding in response, his face proud. "I would love one. Can you put extra chocolate on mine, please?"

"Yes," Bentley said, and you snickered at his serious expression, like he was a waiter taking your order. "Grandma, you want one?"

"Oh, yes please," Jackie said enthusiastically.

"Extra chocolate?" He asked.

"Oh sure."

"Grandma," Bentley said seriously, "the dogs can't have any chocolate."

"Oh okay," Jackie said seriously, like this was the first time she was learning this, the smile on her face indicating she was amused by his concern. "I'll make sure I don't give them any."

None of the adults dug into theirs quite yet though, instead watching Bentley attempt to fit his smore into his mouth, waiting to see his reaction.

"What do you think?" Tyler asked, "is it yummy?"

"Mhmm," Bentley said, nodding appreciatively, his mouth full.

"Can Dad have a bite?" Tyler asked, and Bentley agreed, extending the treat out towards him. "Mmm that is good."

"Is sticky," Bentley said, holding his free hand out from his body, and you laughed.

"I knew he was going to say that," you said, "we'll get a cloth when we're done, okay? It's okay if your fingers are a bit sticky."

"Lick them," Tyler said, Bentley frowning like he thought that was a preposterous idea.

"Here, I'll show you," Tyler said, reaching for Bentley's hand, rather than his own, drawing it towards his mouth. "See and you just stick them in your mouth. Mmm...these are delicious fingers."

Tyler began to make noises like he was nibbling on Bentley's fingers, Bentley squealing out with laughter.

"I hope you didn't get any up here," Tyler said, leaning in and noisily kissing Bentley's neck.

"Stop, stop," Bentley laughed, tilting his head to his ear.

"Oh, you want me to stop?" Tyler asked, pulling back.

"Do 'gain, do 'gain!" Bentley pleaded.

Tyler complied, adding in a belly tickle for good measure, Bentley's head thrown back in laughter.

"Bentley do it," Bentley requested, immediately climbing up into Tyler's lap, leaning his face into Tyler's neck the way Tyler had to him.

"Hey," Tyler said teasingly, Bentley laughing in amusement, "hey, that tickles."

Once Bentley was satisfied with his tickling, he leaned back, running his fingers over Tyler's beard curiously.

"What is that?" Tyler asked.

"Face," Bentley answered.

"Yeah, but what's on my face? Do you remember what it's called?" Tyler asked, answering himself when Bentley shook his head. " It's called a beard."

"Beard," Bentley repeated, running his hands over his own face, mirroring what he just did to Tyler.

"Yeah, you don't have a beard yet, maybe when you're 18 you can grow one," Tyler said, and then tilted his head in thought. "Actually, it might take a bit longer than that mine kind of took awhile to grow in. Sorry about that."

"Is okay," Bentley said happily, reflecting Tyler's smile back at him.

And suddenly you couldn't wait anymore.

"Let's go inside and wash your hands," you said to Bentley, Tyler glancing over at you with a frown.

"But we were gonna do another round of smores?" He said.

"Yeah, we will," You said, reaching for Bentley.

Tyler looked at you seriously as he spoke slowly, like you lost your mind, "Wouldn't it make more sense to do it after?"

"Yeah," you said, "I will. But I want to do it now, too."

"Okay," Tyler said, the question evident in his voice.

Once you were inside, in the light of the house, you could see that Bentley was beginning to look tired, so you took him through his bedtime routine, letting him pick out his pajamas while you gathered the papers you'd stashed in your underwear drawer earlier.

You felt as though you couldn't contain the smile on your face but hoped Tyler wouldn't be able to notice in the twilight outside. He'd moved now, sitting next to his mom, both of their faces illuminated by what they were looking at on his phone, and you noticed a couple of logs had been added to the fire.

You weren't expecting the way your heart beat sped up, your fingers growing sweaty against the papers, even though there was a nice breeze in the air.

"Hey," Tyler said, turning over his shoulder as he heard your footsteps, and you returned his easy smile, as he set his phone face down on the armrest of the chair.

You grasped Bentley's hand a little tighter, bending down to look in his eyes, his dark brown eyes trained on yours like Tyler's so often were. "Hey, can you go give this to Daddy for me?" you said, offering him the crisp papers, which you were sure would end up crumpled in his little hands, but that only made it more special.

"Okay," he said in his small voice, Tyler turning to the other side as he approached the chair.

"Whatcha got for me?" he asked, like he thought Bentley was showing him a toy, not important documents.

He gave you a little frown of confusion as he took the papers from Bentley, glancing at them briefly with his lip pulled between his teeth before he stood up, angling himself so he could read with the light from the fire.

You watched his face carefully, his lips moving as he read, waiting for the moment he realized what they were. But you didn't see the grin you expected or the quiver of emotion. Instead, his expression was unreadable.

"What are these?" He asked quietly, just barely over the crackling of the fire, holding them loosely in his hand. And you paused, because he should have been able to tell from just scanning them what they were.

"They're the adoption papers," you said, slowly, again waiting for his face to change. But it never did.

Instead, he dropped his hand down to his side and looked beyond you. "I don't think now is the time."

"What?" You got out.

"I don't think now is the time," he repeated in an even timbre, this time speaking the words more slowly like that would help you understand.

"Tyler," you said, reaching for him as he started to move past you. "What?"

You'd hadn't even registered that he was leaving until you heard the door bang shut, and you were left staring helplessly to where he'd disappeared. Your mouth was still hanging open when you turned, and you could tell by the look on Jackie's face that she'd heard everything.

You opened and closed your mouth again, uncertain as to how to fill the silence when you'd felt a tug on your dress.

"Mama," Bentley whined, and you were pulled back to reality, bending down to reach for him, pulling him into your body. With his weight against you you moved, sitting down with him and letting him settle against your chest, breathing in his scent.

"I don't know," you said out loud,although more to yourself than Jackie, turning to her as if she'd have all the answers as your hands moved through the curls at the back on Bentley's neck. "We've talked about this. Tyler and I...we've talked about this a lot."

You looked at her, wanting anyone just to tell you what was going on.

"He probably just wasn't expecting it," she said calmly, and then you were rethinking the whole thing, that maybe you shouldn't have involved Bentley or done this with an audience. You said nothing, taking your hand off Bentley's back for a moment to run it over your face, staring out at the water.

"It's a big deal," Jackie said, even though you didn't really think it was, really. He already was Bentley's dad, it wasn't a new progression. This was just symbolic, making what you knew to be official. "He might just need time to process it."

"Yeah," you said, although you weren't really sure. Because he wasn't acting in the way that you knew him to be.

"You know how he can be about these types of things," she said, and you knew you should have found that funny, but you didn't, because all you were trying to do was stop your mind from spiraling into the possibilities of what this might mean.

You heard the creak of the door, which Tyler had wanted to WD-40 but hadn't when you'd mentioned it was part of the charm of the place. You focused on the sound of feet against gravel and the crackling of the fire, the weight and warmth of your son against you, ignoring what it all meant until your view became blocked by Tyler's chest in front of you.

You didn't look him in the eye, because you couldn't yet, but instead he bent down, placing his hand on Bentley's back next to yours. "Hey, bud," he said softly, "can you go cuddle with Grandma for a minute? Daddy needs to talk to Mommy."

Daddy.

Bentley lifted his head briefly, looking at Tyler as he spoke. "Okay," he agreed, and then promptly laid his head back down against your chest. Tyler laughed under his breath, moving to pick him up, effortlessly transferring him into his mom's lap. With Bentley settled, Tyler turned to you, offering you a boyish grin. "Can we talk?"

Part of you wasn't sure if you were ready to do this right now, but with the way he asked and extended his hand towards you, you nodded, letting him help you from your seat. He led you towards the water and onto the dock, and you let yourself sink into the grasp of his hand, embracing the security it offered. He let go of your hand only to lean over and flick on the fairy lights you'd strung up last summer, mostly because you loved the ambiance but also because you needed something to illuminate your path for carrying a sleeping Bentley inside after he'd fallen asleep on an evening boat ride.

You went to sit down, but Tyler reached for your hand again, stopping you. You frowned, wondering if he just thought this was going to be a quick conversation and not the in-depth discussion you felt you needed to have. When he didn't say anything, you wondered if you were supposed to apologize for springing this on him, but his eyes had that gentleness in them you so often got to see.

"I thought you wanted this," you offered, because that was exactly why you were doing this. You wanted it because he wanted it.

"I do," he said, "of course I do."

You must have looked confused because he continued. "I just don't think now is the best time."

If not now, then when? You are beyond him, preparing yourself for that explanation, that "but", before he gains your attention again.

"I just think he should have my last name first," Tyler said, and you took a moment to process his words, your defenses lowering when you realized what you were preparing for wasn't happening. And why he hadn't brought it up, when you talked about it before or when you'd approached him with the papers this evening, you weren't sure. But you also found you didn't really care.

"Well, we can..." you started. We can talk about it. We can do it. Of course he should have your name, too.

"I think both of you should have my last name first," Tyler said now, and you were still trying to understand what he said as you watched him lower to his knee in what felt like slow motion.

"What? what are you doing?" You reacted, reaching your hand out as if trying to grasp something to make sure the situation was real.

A small smile spread across Tyler's face, turning into a smirk as he laughed, teasing, "What does it look like I'm doing?"

You tried to laugh under your breath, your hand going to your chest as you swallowed the emotion in your throat, becoming acutely aware that you couldn't blink because then the tears in your eyes would spill over. But, as you looked at Tyler, his eyes looked just as classy as yours felt. He shifted, and it seemed like everything went quiet for just a moment, the sounds of waves lapping against the dock all that you could hear. When Tyler spoke again, it was in a quiet voice, like you were conspiring,

"Am I supposed to, like, hold this while I say the stuff like I'm presenting it to you?" he asked, and you became aware of the little black box in his palm," or do you keep it in your pocket and then take it out after?"

"I don't know," you laughed, shaking your head, "I've never done this before."

Tyler barked out a laugh, "Well, I've never done this before either!"

And then you were really laughing, brushing the tears that had begun to fall away, taking a deep sigh as you inhaled, both of you reconnected, with lighter energy in the air. Tyler took a deep breath too, sitting the little box on the dock next to him, reaching his hand out towards, "Can I hold your hand at least?"

"Of course you can hold my hand," you said, extending yours out towards his, taking a moment to feel the warmth.

Tyler was quiet for a moment, his eyes searching yours as if collecting himself and his words. "I guess this is just it," he said, looking at where your hands were joined. "Once I started holding your hand I never wanted to stop. You ground me. But you push me, too. And I just know that no matter what shitty or awesome things we go through, I want to be holding your hand through it all."

It was all you could do to nod, smiling through your tears.

"It's funny, I would hear guys talking about their wives being like 'oh yeah, she's my best friend'", he continued. "And I'm like 'yeah, that sounds good,' that's what you say. But I never really believed it until I fell in love with you."

You reached up, wiping away the tears that fell with your free hand.

"Like, there really is someone that you want to hang out with all the time, but that you also want to make all those big decisions with. I just....I just want to do all my life with you, babe," Tyler said, "I love that you'll try new things with me even though you get nervous, but I also love sitting with you on the couch doing nothing. And, god, I love coming home to you and that you're as happy to see me whether I've been gone for five hours or five days. Your smile kills me, babe. Sometimes I see you look at me across the room, and I'm serious when I say I feel like I'm the only other person in the room, the luckiest guy in the world. I would do anything just to have you smile at me like that. I love that you always laugh at my jokes, even if you think they're not funny, and maybe you're just laughing at me but I still love it."

When you laughed, Tyler smiled at you.

"Yeah, like that," He said. "I love how loving and supportive you always are, but that you'll call me out when I need to be called out. I love that I've gotten to watch you become an amazing mother to our son and that we're going through this parenting journey together. I love this home, and this life that we've created together. And I would really, really love if you would be my wife."

It was all you could do to keep your composure, listening intently as he slowly, almost playfully received your full name. But his next words were serious, and ones that you were certain you would replay in your mind forever. "Will you marry me?"

Wordlessly, you nodded your head, although you were so overcome with emotion you weren't sure sure how much you were actually moving, and you realized Tyler was waiting for a verbal answer.

"Yes," you spoke, your voice soft, intended only for him.

"Yeah?" He asked hopefully.

"Yes," you said, your smile breaking through your feelings of shock now, "yes, of course I'll marry you. 100%."

"100%?" He asked, his grin widening.

"100%," you agreed. And, because you couldn't wait any longer, you pulled on the hand that was joining the two of you, encouraging him to his feet, pressing your lips to his before you threw your arms around his neck. He pulled you closer, and you could feel your tears mingling together, his lips moving against your ear.

"I love you so much."

"I love you," you replied, pulling back to kiss him once and then twice more. He pulled you closer, you raised up onto your tiptoes and you swayed back and forth, bathing in his warmth and feeling the happiness flow through your veins, feeling like you almost couldn't get close enough.

"Mmmcareful, I don't know where the ring box is," Tyler mumbled, and then both of you were looking for the ring box at your feet, aware that if you kicked it, it might end up in the lake. He bent down when he saw it, flashing you a grin, and then got back down on one knee. He slowly opened the ring box, smiling up at you, and your hands went to your face again, still somehow in shock.

"Are you sure?" he asked.

His voice was light and teasing, but you were serious when you responded. "Yes, I'm sure," you said, "It was almost meant to be you, Tyler."

He tilted his head at you, the emotion clear in his eyes, delicately taking the ring in his fingers. He took your hand in his eyes locked on yours as he slid the ring onto your finger. You felt it reach your knuckle and smiled, rocking back and forth on your heels a little in excitement.

This time it was him who pulled you to him, pulling your legs around his waist, his lips falling to yours. He spun you around as you laced your arms around his neck, somehow still aware of that ring on your finger. You were caught up into your own little world until a sudden high-pitched noise caused Tyler to pull back, looking at you.

"What the hell was that?" He asked, letting your feet down to the ground, but keeping you pulled into his body, arms around you.

"I think that was your mom," you said, looking back towards the house, Tyler laughing.

"I thought it was a bird."

"No, pretty sure it was your mom," you said, letting your head rest against his chest for just a moment, laughing as he made a gesture towards his mom to keep it down. "She's just excited."

"I know, but I don't want the whole lake to come out here to see what's going on because I just want to keep kissing you a little longer," he said, doing just that, "Although I'd totally kiss you in front of everyone, I don't care. I think our kid is sleeping though."

"Mmm.." you mused, still stuck in his embrace. "Is he okay?"

You felt Tyler look back over towards the fire pit, "Yeah, my mom's got him. I think he's out."

"Good," you said, pulling back to look at him, " you can kiss me again then."

"Gladly," he said, and you caught the smile on his face before his lips pressed against yours again.

You stayed like that for a few moments, alternating between soft kisses and hugs, wrapped up in each other. Eventually you pulled back to look at each other, easy smiles on both your faces.

"Hey, you know I'm signing those papers, right?" Tyler said, his hands moving to rest on your lower back. And you nodded, because of course you knew.

"There is nothing in the world I want more than to make that official," he said, nodding his head back towards where Bentley was, his hands trailing down to intertwine with yours, "But I want to make us official, too."

"Me too," your shoulders rising up to your ears in excitement. "I'm so excited to marry you."

"I know," Tyler said, agreeing with you, both of you turning your head at the sound of nails clicking across the dock, the dogs gaining your attention.

"I did it, guys, she said 'yes'," Tyler said animatedly, and you smiled at the dogs wagging their tails, reflecting his enthusiasm. You laughed when he bent down, asking for high fives with one hand, his other hand still around your low back. You laughed, bending down to pet them, too. "Yeah, check out that ring, Dad did pretty good, eh? " Tyler said, when the pups started sniffing that new edition to your hand. And then he paused, looking at you. "Do you like it?"

"I love it," you answered, although Tyler raised his eyebrows at you.

"Did you even look at it? What color is it?" He asked, laughing as he snatched your hand away so you couldn't look.

"Ring-coloured?" you questioned, both you and Tyler laughing.

"Don't start our marriage off with a lie," he teased.

"No, I really do love it," you said, "I was just too excited about marrying you that I didn't look at the ring."

"Which I am happy about," Tyler said, tilting his head at you. "But I do want you to like the ring too."

"I know I will because you gave it to me," you said.

"Awe," Tyler said teasingly, but giving you a serious look. "Be honest though. Promise?"

"Promise," you agreed. "Always."

"Okay," Tyler said, moving as if to present your hand to you. "Hang on, it's kind of dark."

"Okay," you laughed, your hand still hidden in his as he took his phone out from his pocket, turning the flashlight on, and you laughed a little harder at the ridiculousness of this, the two of you huddled together out in dim light, away from the house. This momentous occasion in your life and yet you were using your cell phone flashlight you see, like any other summer evening.

But you also wouldn't have it any other way.

Your breath hitched in your throat as you took in the way that your hand looked now, a reminder of this relationship that you build now on your hand for you to see everyday.

"It's beautiful," you said, strands of tiny diamonds woven together, circled around a larger center stone.

"So," Tyler said softly, a gentle smile on his face, your hand still outstretched over his,"these tiny ones, there's 100 of them for our 100% thing. And I thought the circle thing was good because of forever."

You smiled as he drew a circle in the air.

"And the diamond in the middle is from Nana's ring," he said, your hand moving to your chest, and tears brimming in your eyes again.

"Really?" you asked, looking back at the ring now.

"Yeah," Tyler said, his voice breaking with emotion,rubbing your hand with his thumb. "We all wanted you to have it."

You gave him a look that you hoped would convey how much that meant to you.

"I love it so much," you said, leaning over to kiss him. "It's better than I ever could have imagined."

And now he smirked at you, tilting his head teasingly. "Oh, you were imagining it, eh?"

"Stop," you said, laughing, your hand going to his chest and he laughed, his hands running up your forearm, and you caught that sparkle of your ring again against the soft cotton of his shirt. "Is it rose gold?"

"Yes," Tyler answered, laughing under his breath.

"I love rose gold," you said.

"I know you do," Tyler smiled at you, kissing you again, hands on yours, moving down your sides, forehead pressed against yours. "Do you think we should head back? Check on Bentley?"the

"Mhmm.." you said, pressing your lips against his, "Let's go sit by the fire."

You took his hand, walking easily back towards your home, the dogs circling around you. Once you got close enough to see his Mom's face, Tyler lifted your hand up, making a dramatic face towards the ring on your hands, and you smiled at his mom's joyous laughter.

"Congratulations, you guys," she said, happiness all over her face, and she gestured to the toddler in her lap, a blanket pulled up around him. "I'd get up to hug you but..."

You and Tyler went over anyway, hugging her, and you let yourself enjoy this quiet excitement. When Bentley stirred and looked at you, you ran your hand over his back. "Guess what?" you said quietly. "Mommy and Daddy are going to get married."

Bentley, who had lifted his head, let out a sleepy "okay", putting his head back down, the adults laughing. You smiled at Tyler though, looking forward to tomorrow when you'd get to tell Bentley again and explain to him just what marriage was.

You went to sit down, but Tyler made a whining noise, reaching out for you. "Come sit with me," he pleaded, patting his lap. "Fiancee. Can I call you that? That's so weird to say."

"Yes, you can call me that," you laughed, "I am."

"I know," Tyler grinned, pulling you down to sit with him. "you say it."

"Fiance," you said, and Tyler scrunched his nose, nodding his head.

"I like it," he declared.

"Me too," you agreed, already dreaming of the day you'd get to be husband and wife, settling down against him, and then looking over the fire at your son and your future mother-in-law. "You knew," you said to her.

And she just looked back at you, smiling, arms going around Bentley a little tighter. "Of course I knew."

#won't go slowly #nhl imagines #hockey imagines #hockey imagine #nhl imagine #tyler seguin imagine #tyler seguin imagines #tyler seguin smut #nhl smut

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