Chapter 115: Strategic Moves
Diane’s POV
The drive back from the house felt like a dream I didn’t want to wake from. Every time I closed my eyes, I could still see Noah’s hands as he assembled the toddler beds, the way his shirt had stretched across his shoulders as he reached for the wall decals. The memory of our kiss on the doorstep made my lips tingle all over again, and I found myself touching them absently as we pulled into Joan’s driveway.
"Thank you," I whispered as Noah helped me out of the car, his hand lingering on mine just a moment longer than necessary.
"For what?" he asked, those dark eyes searching mine.
"For making today perfect. For making me feel like I’m not doing this alone anymore."
His smile was soft, devastating. "You’re never alone, Diane. Not as long as I’m breathing."
After Noah left for his hotel to prepare for his rescheduled business trip, I found myself alone in Joan’s living room, still buzzing with the emotions of the day. The nursery we’d created together felt like a glimpse of the life we were building together. But first, there were calls to make, plans to set in motion.
I settled onto the couch with my phone, suddenly eager to share this moment with my father. He’d given me so much more than just a house—he’d given me hope and strength to move forward.
"Dad?" I said when he answered on the second ring.
"Diane, sweetheart. How did it go? Did you see the house?"
"Dad, it’s absolutely beautiful," I gushed, feeling like a child again sharing exciting news. "I can’t believe you did all this for me. The nursery is perfect—I added some personal touches. Pink and blue bedding, some artwork—it already feels like home."