Chapter 38: Chapter 38

- And this tie, dad and I chose together.

Stifling a laugh, Missy watched as Logan happily accepted the brightly colored tie Eleanor was handing him with a huge, sparkling smile on her sweet little face. Right next door, sitting on one of the sofas in the living room where everyone was, Paul didn't hesitate to burst out laughing, especially when his brother-in-law hugged and thanked Ellie vehemently, as if she had just given him the greatest of precious things.

- Thank you darling. Now I'll be able to walk around my office with much more style... - He looked at the tie inside the transparent packaging - And lots of colors.

- You can wear it to your wedding! – Eleanor suddenly suggested, making everyone freeze, shocked – So I can also give you the gift of being your maid of honor!

- She inherited all this humility from your side of the family, love. - Missy, who was completely petrified with embarrassment, heard Diana whispering softly to her husband.

- I will certainly love to accept this gift more, dear. - Logan stroked Ellie's hair, looking calmer than Missy could ever be, when answering a question like that - But you'll need to wait a bit, okay? Aunt Missy and I still plan on dating for a little while longer.

- He is well. - Eleanor sighed, almost disappointed - But don't wait too long, uncle, or you risk missing the right moment, like Flynn Ryder, when he didn't kiss Rapunzel in Tangled, before the bad guys caught them.

- Excellent advice, Ellie. - Logan laughed, before looking at Missy, making her blush - And, believe me, I don't plan on missing this moment. Not him, not anyone else.

- All right, enough of so much romance. Now, it's my turn! - Diana sang, quickly approaching Logan with a small golden box in her hands - Here it is, little brother. I didn't even have to think too much about this gift since we all know it's something you love! - Something in her smirk made Missy know that wasn't entirely true.

Obviously wary, Logan took the beautifully decorated small box and opened it quickly, frowning and sneering as soon as the lid of the gift was opened.

- Really, Diana? – he complained, pulling a tiny canapé in pastel tones from inside the wrapping, which immediately made everyone laugh – Did you bother to go back to that buffet and ask them to specifically make one of these canapés?

- And it was worth every second. – Diana laughed, in ecstasy – But I provided more than that, don't worry. Lift the bottom of the box. - She guided, snuggling up against Paul, whose huge body continued to move due to the fit of laughter.

With a good-natured sigh, Logan did as his little sister had said, now pulling a long dark envelope from the box.

- What is it? – Megan asked, curious, as Logan pulled out two long and thick pieces of paper from inside the envelope, which made him give a sweetly happy smile.

- They're tickets. – he revealed, looking at his sister with amusement and contentment – For a piano repair in two weeks. Thank you sis. – he thanked her, before throwing the canapé on a tray full of leftover dessert that was next to them, without any care – But that little piece of hell is going to the trash. – he growled softly, making everyone laugh.

- Well, now there's just one last gift left. - Devon recalled, good-humored, making everyone turn their attention to Missy, who was now lightly kneading the handle of her gift bag nervously between her hands. All that afternoon, she'd sat by Logan's side, watching him receive gifts and congratulations from the entire Knight family, while she grew increasingly nervous about how he would react to gifts from her.

And now the time had come.

- Well... - she swallowed, awkwardly, while she removed a small envelope from inside the bag, extending it to Logan, while explaining - Actually, there are two gifts.

- You also bought a ticket to one of his boring concerts? – Paul asked, laughing, while Logan opened the envelope and took out the small set of papers inside, reading them quickly.

And her heart skipped a beat as he flashed her an emotional but also happy smile.

- It's a contract. – he explained, in a soft voice, leaving everyone around confused – A contract with a music school. – Logan explained, looking at Missy with so much affection that she couldn't help but smile at him – Starting next week, I'm going to start taking one piano lesson a week.

- Piano? Daniel asked, exchanging a stunned and delighted look with his wife.

- Yes… - Logan looked at his parents through his eyelashes, giving them a small bittersweet smile – I think… I think the time has finally come. And I know grandpa would be happy. - he waved with the head, making a tear run down Gwyneth's face, while Daniel swallowed, clearly moved too - Even if I'm going to do this alone, I know that part of him will be with me.

- But you won't be alone. – Missy whispered, even knowing that everyone was listening to her, and gave his hand a gentle squeeze, making him look at her again, confused – I bought a double pack of lessons… for both of us. – she explained, with a shy smile – Next week, I'll be by your side and we'll both learn to play together. I mean, if you feel comfortable, of course. – She amended quickly, not wanting to sound as if she was imposing her presence on a moment that she knew would be so sensitive for him.

- Oh, please, Missy... -Megan laughed – We all know that the only difficulty your presence will generate is that he will be too distracted looking at you, instead of paying attention to the teacher.

Everyone around laughed, making her blush and look away to the floor, looking up again only when Logan pulled her by the shoulders towards him, hugging her against his chest gently, while kissing her hair gently, almost adoration. .

- Megan is correct. – Logan murmured against her ear, making her giggle – But that doesn't make this gift any less wonderful. Thank you, Missy. Not just for the classes... But, mainly, for being willing to be by my side and support me in this process. This… – he whispered, so low that she doubted anyone else in the family could have heard, no matter how close they were – This means a lot to me. More than you'll ever be able to understand. Thank you my love. – He murmured even lower, before kissing her forehead lovingly.

- I'm glad you liked it. – Missy smiled, blushing, while pulling the second package from inside the bag – But… This here is the gift I really wanted to give you… – she handed it over slowly, hoping that this gift could do it. even happier.

- So, whatever it is… – he gave one of those smiles that made him look like a god – I'm sure I'm going to love it.

Gently, he undid the bow that held the box and opened it, his eyes widening, completely amazed, as soon as he realized what was inside, wrapped in a transparent wrapping.

- Oh, Missy... - he panted almost inaudibly, reverently removing the toy from inside the box and taking it out of the wrapping, staring at it with total enchantment - You bought me a replica of my robot? He gave a shaky, almost tearful laugh.

- Is it the same as the toy Grandpa gave you? – Devon asked, equally surprised – The one you sold so many years ago?

- It's perfect, Missy. – Logan smiled, clearly moved, pulling her into a tight hug, while the robot remained in his hand – Thank you.

- There's one more surprise. – Missy smiled against his neck, euphoric for what would come next – Look a little better...

Looking at it for another second, not understanding, Logan pulled back a little, turning the toy between his hands a few times, taking in the scratches and peeling paint in various places, until his eyes finally focused, astonished, on the scratched side. of one of the robot's legs, finally realizing what was written there.

- That… That… – Logan gasped, in shock – It…

- It's your robot. – Missy smiled at him, watching satisfied the name “Logan” written crookedly in the old and mistreated metal, but that was still legible, even after so many years – I figured that, because it was a famous toy, but still so it was used quite a bit, maybe it was being sold somewhere online these days, so I started looking around. – she said, involving her hands in his, which seemed a little shaky, while he continued to stare at the toy, with his jaw wide open – I confess that I didn't have much hope of finding your toy exactly, but I imagined that you would like to have that little memory back... Until I found him. – She smiled, beaming – You don't know how happy I was when the owner of the online antique shop sent me the photos and I saw his name written. Luck helped me immensely... And I was able to bring your grandfather's gift back to you. – she murmured, feeling emotional as well – Are you… are you happy?

Tense with anticipation, Missy stood still, watching him blink a few times, still shocked and with wet green eyes focused only on the ancient toy, until, suddenly, thick streams of tears began to run down her cheeks, while Logan he began to swallow several times before a choked sob escaped his throat.

- Missy... – he murmured, choking, not seeming to be able to say anything beyond that – Oh, Missy...

- Oh dear - Gwyneth sobbed, drawing her attention to her face also stained with tears, with a huge and grateful smile - You don't know how much this means...

But she didn't get a chance to hear what else Mrs. Knight had to say, as Logan's arms were suddenly all around her, molding every inch of her body to his as he sobbed softly and placed tear-damp kisses all over her face, staring down at her with pure joy. worship.

- Thank you... Thank you, thank you... - he continued to murmur while kissing and caressing her, without taking his eyes off hers for even a second - Oh, Missy... I love you so much... Thank you... Thank you...” He continued to sob frantically, making her stiffen for a second.

Had he said he loved her? Or was she just crazy?

For a second, her heart raced and a strange wave of ecstasy ran through her body, leaving her almost boneless in the midst of the unspeakable joy of having heard that phrase...

Until she realized that those words certainly didn't have the context her mind had imagined. In fact, it was undoubtedly the product of emotion, friendship and affection he felt for her. They were dear friends – best friends, even – and she had just given him back an object that had incalculable sentimental value. He didn't love her romantically. He loved her only as the friend who had given him a most special gift. Yes, it was just that. And it was fine.

Was not?

Logan, on the other hand, seemed completely oblivious to what he had just said, continuing to kiss every inch of her face as he murmured shaky thanks for crying, until she felt two more pairs of arms encircle her waist and legs. Startled, she looked down to find Gwyneth and Daniel with their arms around her and their own son, as tearful as Logan was.

- Thank you my dear. – Gwyneth whined, kissing her temple lovingly – Thank you for doing this for our son… Thank you for being in his life. And for making him so happy.

- I'm the one who should be saying these things... - Logan sniffed, looking a little more composed as he cupped Missy's face between his hands, pulling her into a soft, warm kiss - You, Melissa Sutton, are the best thing that ever happened to me. Thank you very much... - he looked at her deeply and intensely, while another tear escaped from the corner of her eye - For existing. For being with me. For making me so happy... Thank you... For everything. He finally sighed, his deep voice completely choking.

- Seeing you so happy is the greatest thanks I could receive. – she confessed, tightening her arms around his chest, before putting herself on tiptoes so she could whisper against his ear – You spent so much time taking care of your family, your agency, me… But you deserve it. that someone takes care of you a little too. And make him happy. I'm glad I did this for you, even if it's still far from being everything you deserve. – She gently kissed the base of his neck, while she felt more tears run down his face, enough to wet her hair a little.

For what seemed like an eternity, and at the same time also the blink of an eye, they remained embraced and in silence, until Ellie's voice, spoken in a high tone, but which still suggested that she was struggling to whisper, the brought you back to reality.

- Does Uncle Logan like toys that much, Mom? Why don't we get him a new one? That one is so old...

She and Logan laughed at the same time, finally pulling away, however hesitantly, from each other's arms, while Daniel and Gwyneth remained right beside her, looking at them not only with affection in their eyes, but also... Something that Missy he didn't quite recognize it, but it felt almost… Relief, perhaps?

- Come on, honey. Let's get you another piece of cake while I explain why that little robot is so important to your uncle. – Diana took her daughter's hand and followed her towards the kitchen, with Paul, who had little Derek asleep on his shoulder, right behind the two – You know, when your great-grandfather Tristan was still alive... – Her voice it got lost as they walked away.

- I don't know exactly what that is... - Megan spoke cautiously, as she stood in front of the two, with Devon at her side - But if it made this Iceman melt like that, then I only have one thing to say : Congratulations, little sister. – Megan jumped up to give him a hug that Missy returned immediately – Best gift ever!

- It really was a great thing, Missy. – Her brother-in-law praised her, with grateful blue eyes – We even tried to look for that toy a few times, knowing everything it meant to my brother… But we were never successful. – he revealed turning to Logan in the next moment with a forced smile, almost mocking – Who knew that Missy would be able to make you so happy, right, little brother? Life is really so surprising and unexpected sometimes...

- I think everyone understands, Devon. – Logan growled, interrupting him abruptly, almost annoyed – Why don't you go to the kitchen? I'm sure Rose and Paul must be in need of help with the kids...

- I'm sure they're not. – Devon smiled widely, earning an almost murderous look from his brother – But, if you want so much to spend some time alone with your girlfriend, just ask. Let's go, love? – He put an arm around Megan's shoulders, smiling lovingly at her, who just waved and threw a last satisfied look in the direction of Logan and Missy, before allowing herself to be guided by her husband to the kitchen as well.

- Oh, Missy... - Gwyneth sighed when the four of them were alone, taking Missy's hands between hers, still with tears in her green eyes - You made today an even more special day... Thank you very much, dear. She kissed his forehead with such motherly affection that Missy almost felt like crying. It was a new sensation for her, yet so warm and comfortable that her heart seemed to swell with joy – There could be no one better for my son. – Gwyneth smiled at Logan – And I like to think that he is also the right person to give you all the happiness you deserve.

- He already makes me very happy. – Missy blushed, returning Gwyneth's hug for long seconds, until Logan's mother finally pulled away gently, wiping the tears that were still streaming down her face.

- Yes I know. You were made for each other, after all... - Her kind smile suddenly fell, being replaced by an almost panicked expression, as if she had regretted what she had said - Huh, well, I meant, huh. ..

- There's still some of that pudding Missy loves left, isn't there, my love? – Daniel smiled affectionately, squeezing his wife's hand almost as if he was offering her support – Why don't we both go get her some and take the opportunity to give the lovebirds some privacy? I'm sure they must have some things to say to each other. Daniel exchanged a quick look with Logan, before starting to move his wheelchair forward, taking a still oddly flushed and embarrassed Gwyneth away from the room.

- Did something happen? – Missy asked when they were out of sight, confused – Gwyneth looked so embarrassed all of a sudden…

- It was nothing. – Logan shook his head, with a smile that was also a little awkward – My mother is just a little afraid of saying something inappropriate and ending up… Complicating things between us. – He explained slowly, as if he was choosing each word – She adores you and she wants us to move forward in this relationship as quickly as possible. In fact, she doesn't even understand why I haven't asked you to marry me yet... - he laughed softly, before his eyes refocused on her face, which immediately made him worried - Missy, what is it?

- They're creating a lot of expectations about the two of us, aren't they? – She bit her lip, worried – Logan… How will it be when we both need to separate? – Missy questioned, feeling again that disorienting pain breaking her heart in half – I… I love them so much. I almost feel like they are my parents too! I don't want to disappoint them and...

- Missy... - Logan interrupted her, with furrowed brows and beautiful face practically contorted with determination - I... There's something important I need... - he swallowed, seeming to reflect deeply, before continuing - Ask you.

- Hmmm... Of course. What is it? Missy started wringing her hands nervously, suddenly worried that Logan was going to ask her to finish what they had right then and there. After all, her self-esteem was already healed. In fact, she even managed to sincerely like and be proud of herself, something she didn't even aim for. Each day, she saw the envy and bitterness in the eyes of Liam and Suzan, whose taunts now didn't even seem terrible anymore, but pathetic, the fruit of only the most arrogant kind of jealousy. She had even finished her project and it was no longer necessary to frequent the office or the agency... Why should they go through with it anyway?

And just thinking about it made her want to curl up into a ball and cry her eyes out, but she managed to stay firmly on her feet as Logan cleared his throat before finally speaking again.

- Missy, are you... Are you happy with what we both have? he asked slowly, looking at her over his lashes. And for a second, she had the impression that he looked as unsure as she felt. But she soon dismissed that thought.

After all, why would he be insecure?

- Yes, I am! Much! – she gasped, deciding that being honest might be the best option – How could I not be? Logan... Your company, the intimacy we have, everything we share... - He started to open a wide smile, until she continued - Your friendship, your support... In this last month, I haven't I know what would have become of me without all that. And I'm really grateful for everything... - she sighed, looking down at the floor - So, I would like you to know that I am aware that maybe the time has come for us to end this. So if that's what you want, I won't try to stop it and...

- Wait, finish? – Logan gasped, his eyes so wide that she could almost swear he was panicking – Do you… Do you want to finish? – he looked like he was about to hyperventilate, which surprised Missy even more.

- No, I do not want. – Missy revealed, making his shoulders immediately relax – It's just… The way you looked nervous… I thought that was what you wanted to talk to me about.

- No, Missy, of course not. – he ran his hands anxiously through his hair – I… I just… – Finally, he closed his eyes tightly, shaking his head fiercely once, almost as if he was trying to expel a thought from his mind, before to finally look at her again, with soft eyes, but also a sad – Forget it. It just doesn't matter. I would never want to talk about breaking up, Missy. What we have is very special to me. Especially after today... - he picked up the little robot, which was resting placidly on the sofa, with reverence, smiling sweetly - So... Please, just forget it.

- You... Are you sure? - Missy questioned, worried - If you really want to tell me something, I promise I'll listen, whatever it is...

- It really was nothing. – He gave a smile that didn't reach those incredibly green eyes, still looking almost hurt – Nothing that could happen right now, anyway. Anyway, there's no reason to think about it... - he looked away between the toy and her still confused face - Not when you made me so happy, bringing back that little part of my grandfather. Certainly few things could make me happier. he said sadly, his desolate tone stirring an annoyance inside her that Missy couldn't quite pinpoint where it came from.

- And what would they be? – Missy asked gently, interested in what else she could do for him on his birthday, especially if it helped erase that expression from his face – We still have a lot of time to make them come true… – she purred, making him smile truly this time.

- In part, you're right. But, unfortunately, none of these things could happen even today. – he sighed, kissing her affectionately – So, don't worry about it, love. You've already made me happier today than I thought possible.

- Well... - Missy bit her lip, wanting to lighten the mood between them when realizing that he really didn't want to talk to her about it, at least not at that moment - I still have some surprises for you... Today at night night. – Slowly, she opened a small part of the button-down blouse with Pokémon print that she was wearing, letting him preview the dark green and lacy fabric of the lingerie she was wearing.

- Fuck... - Logan snarled, his eyes darkening with a desire so intense that she had the distinct impression that he was about to rip the blouse off her body, until she managed to stop herself, taking a deep breath, before speaking, clearly through clenched teeth. – We are leaving early today.

- Good luck convincing our family of this. – Missy laughed, quickly buttoning her blouse again, before wrapping her hand in his, wanting, more than anything, that the smile that appeared on his face when he saw his grandfather's present could return – In the meantime, what do you think? of taking another piece of cake, to accumulate energy?

A second passed while he just watched her intently, an unreadable expression on his thoughtful, almost livid face. Finally, just as she was about to worry again, he broke into an absolutely dazzling smile and brought the back of his hand to his lips, giving her a kiss that, while gentle and warm, indescribably also held a great sensual charge. almost like a promise of what he would do to her once they were alone.

- Good idea, love. – he purred, his deep voice full of malice – God knows you're going to need a lot of energy when I get my hands on my third birthday present.