"Without a doubt, I want to spend the rest of my life with Amanda. I was over the moon after Dad had allowed me to be with her and wouldn't interfere in our relationship anymore. After that, I'm faced with big responsibilities like never before. Ensuring our future together would be great. I owe it to her after all the pain she had suffered with me."
Harris nodded, understanding how David had grown up so much over the years. He can tell how sincere David was with Amanda, and taking their relationship to the next level wouldn't be far from happening.
"I only want to ensure we have a strong foundation before finally making our own family. And besides, I don't have my own house, I still live with my Dad. Isn't it funny?" David grinned.
"That wouldn't be a problem, I'm sure you can choose from one of your Dad's mansions."
"Nah. I want to build our own. I want Amanda's input on what type of house she wants to live in," David said with pride.
"Wow, that's a good idea, David."
"In the meantime, I want to take a break and travel with Amanda."
Harris couldn't help but smile at David's words. "That's fantastic, David. You and Amanda have been through a lot together, and it sounds like you've got some exciting plans ahead."
David nodded, his eyes shining with anticipation. "Yeah, we've been talking about it for a while now. We both want to see the world together before we settle down. It's something we've dreamt of."
Harris leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "You know, David, seeing you take this step, makes me think about my own future with Mallory and Harriet. I want to give them the best life possible."
David grinned, sensing the direction of Harris's thoughts. "Sounds like you're ready to take that big step too, Harris."
Harris chuckled, a mixture of nervousness and excitement bubbling within him. "Yeah, I am. Mallory and I have been through so much, and I can't imagine my life without her and Harriet. Now that Mallory fully accepted me, I want to move it to the next level. It's just... with all this corporate drama, it's been hard to find the right moment."
David raised an understanding eyebrow. "Timing is crucial, I get that. But remember, there's never a 'perfect' time for anything in life. Sometimes, you've just got to take that leap of faith and go for it."
Harris nodded thoughtfully. "You're right, David. I've waited long enough. Mallory and Harriet mean everything to me, and I want to make it official, not just as co-parents but as a family."
David grinned, his eyes filled with warmth. "I'm thrilled for you, Harris. When the moment feels right, you'll know it. And trust me, it's going to be a beautiful journey."
Their conversation continued, filled with laughter and heartfelt discussions about life, love, and the futures they were both eagerly anticipating. As they talked, Harris couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of determination to make things work with Mallory and Harriet, no matter what challenges lay ahead.
Harris went home just in time for dinner. He stood in the doorway, a surprised yet delighted smile spreading across his face as he took in the scene before him. The dining room was bathed in the warm glow of candlelight, casting soft, flickering shadows on the walls. A beautifully set table awaited him, adorned with their finest china and crystal glasses. The aroma of a delicious meal filled the air, making his stomach growl in anticipation.
Harriet sat at the table, her face lit up with excitement, dressed in her favorite dress. "Daddy, look! Mommy made all this!" she exclaimed, her little hands gesturing toward the table.
Mallory, standing beside their daughter, beamed at Harris. "Surprise!" she said, her voice filled with a mix of playfulness and affection.
Harris couldn't help but chuckle, feeling a wave of warmth wash over him. He stepped further into the room, his eyes never leaving Mallory's. "Wow, baby, you've outdone yourself," he said, his voice filled with genuine appreciation.
Mallory blushed slightly, a shy smile playing on her lips. "I wanted to do something special tonight," she admitted. "You've been working so hard, and I thought it would be nice for us to have some quality time together."
Harris crossed the room in a few strides, taking Mallory into his arms and planting a loving kiss on her lips. "I love it," he murmured against her mouth, his hands finding their way to her waist. "But it's not just about the dinner. It's about being here with you and Harriet."
Mallory's eyes sparkled with affection as she gazed up at him. "I couldn't agree more," she replied softly. "Now, have a seat. Dinner's served."
As they sat down together, the three of them enjoyed a lovely meal filled with laughter, stories about their day, and dreams of the future. The candlelight danced around them, creating an atmosphere of intimacy and love that Harris cherished more than anything. This simple yet heartfelt gesture from Mallory reminded him of the beautiful family they were building together, and he couldn't be happier.
As they finished their meal, Harris felt a deep sense of contentment wash over him. They spend more time in the living room and talk more about Harriet. Their lovely daughter was enthusiastic about sharing her life in school until her eyes drooped with sleepiness.
"Momm, Daddy, I'm sleepy," Harriet said, yawning.
Harriet was gently led to bed by Harriet along with Mallory. It was their little routine, and seeing Harris's nurturing care for their daughter never failed to warm Mallory's heart.
After tucking Harriet in and kissing her goodnight, Mallory and Harris returned to the living room. They are sipping on a glass of wine as they settle into the couch. For a moment, they simply enjoyed the quiet companionship of one another's presence.
"You know," Mallory began, breaking the comfortable silence, "I've been thinking a lot lately."
Harris turned to her, his gaze filled with curiosity. "About what?"
Mallory's eyes met his, and there was a seriousness in her expression. "About us, Harris. About our future."
He set his wine glass down, giving her his full attention. "What about our future, Mally?"
She took a deep breath, her fingers tracing patterns on the couch. "I love what we have now, the way we're raising Harriet together and how close we've become. But I can't help but wonder, where are we headed? What do we want for ourselves, as a couple?"
Harris nodded slowly, his brow furrowing with thought. "I've thought about that too, Mally," he admitted. "And I want you to know that I'm willing to wait for whatever you're comfortable with. Whether it's taking things slow or taking a step forward."
Mallory smiled, her eyes softening. "Thank you, Harris. I appreciate your patience. And I want you to know that I care about you deeply. I just need some time to sort through my own feelings, to be sure about what I want, while taking care of our daughter and my business venture."
Harris reached across the table, covering her hand with his own. "Mallory, take all the time you need. I'm not going anywhere, and I'll always be here to support you and Harriet."
Her fingers curled around his, and she squeezed his hand gently. "You're amazing, Harris. Harriet and I are lucky to have you in our lives."
He leaned closer, his lips brushing against hers in a tender kiss. "And I'm the lucky one," he whispered. "By the way, how was your business going? Are you near launching it?"
"Yes, we already have a date. Heidi and Amanda have been very helpful lately. During Heidi and Scott's baby shower, I've mentioned scented whispers and since then they've been giving me ideas of candle names."
"Good to know that," Harris nodded, feeling proud of his girlfriend. "Let me know if there is more I can help."
"Nothing more. You've done too much for me and my business venture."
As they shared that sweet moment, their hearts felt lighter, and the uncertainty of the future seemed less daunting. Whatever lay ahead, they knew they would face it together, as a family. Harris meets Mallory's lips, and they kiss passionately.
"Wait!" Harris parted their lips. "Have you learned to say the word, baby again? You promised me," he reminded, raising an eyebrow.
"Harris, please..."
"Say it!" Harris teased.
"Fine!" Mallory hesitated before saying the word. "Baby."
Harris grinned like a fool.