Noel stayed rooted where he was, glancing from his father to Summer, unsure whether he should step inside.
"Noel, come here," Gideon called gently. "Look who is here."
Noel…
The name echoed in Summer's mind. Only then did she look at the boy properly and realize this was Danica and Gideon's son.
Pain clenched around her heart once more, and she turned her face away.
Noel finally walked toward them.
"You always wanted to be with the pretty aunt," Gideon said softly. "I brought her home. Are you happy now?"
Noel looked up at Summer, his small heart filled with hesitation. He did like this gentle, beautiful aunt, but he was scared. His mother had warned him not to get close to her. If Danica found out he had been with Summer, she would punish him.
Gideon took his hand and pulled him closer, then bent down until they were eye to eye. "Do you want her to be your mom? Just say yes, and I'll make it happen." His voice dropped to a whisper.
