By your Side

Chapter 12

"Okay, I have to admit," Aiden said, laughing. "That plot twist caught me completely off-guard."

"Ha! I knew it would!" Lucy replied, her eyes sparkling with delight. "I told you not to underestimate the author."

Mason observed this exchange, taking note of how they made each other laugh and how effortlessly they seemed to communicate. He began to recognize the authenticity of their love for one another – the way they supported and challenged each other, both emotionally and intellectually.

"Guys, I'll be right back," Mason announced, pushing his chair back and retreating to the living room where he could gather his thoughts.

"Hey, is everything okay?" Aiden asked, following him with concern etched on his face. Lucy trailed behind, her own worry evident.

"Look, I've been watching you two tonight," Mason began, hesitating for a moment before continuing. "And I can see that what you have is real. The way you look at each other, the way you talk – there's no denying it."

"Thank you, Mason," Aiden said earnestly, relief washing over him.

"Please just promise me," Mason continued, looking at both of them, "that you will always be there for each other, no matter what."

"We promise," Lucy and Aiden said in unison, their voices filled with conviction.

"Good," Mason replied, nodding. "I'm glad."

The change in Mason's demeanor marked a significant turning point for the couple. As they returned to the dining table, Lucy and Aiden seemed lighter, their laughter more carefree than before. The weight of disapproval had been lifted, allowing them to truly enjoy each other's company without the shadow of Mason's reservations looming over them.

"Lucy?" Aiden said softly, reaching for her hand under the table. "I've never been happier."

"Me too, Aiden," she replied, squeezing his hand tightly. "And now that we have Mason's support, I know there's nothing we can't face together."

As the evening wore on, the three of them shared stories, laughter, and memories – a newfound bond strengthening between them. And for Lucy and Aiden, it was the beginning of a new chapter in their relationship, one filled with love and understanding.

As Lucy and Aiden sat side by side on the couch, they couldn't help but steal glances at each other, their eyes brimming with happiness. The corners of their mouths were drawn upwards in a permanent smile, a palpable relief radiating from them.

"Can you believe it?" Lucy whispered to Aiden, her eyes sparkling with joy. "Mason finally understands."

Aiden nodded, his eyes locked on hers, reflecting the same mix of gratitude and love. "I know," he replied, his voice barely audible over the sound of their beating hearts. "It's like a dream come true."

"Come here," she murmured, pulling him closer so that their bodies pressed together. They exchanged a tender, lingering kiss – one that spoke volumes about the depth of their love and the newfound freedom they now enjoyed.

"Lucy," Aiden began, taking advantage of the openness they now shared. "There's something I've been wanting to tell you for a long time, but I held back because I was afraid."

"Tell me now," she urged, her hand resting gently on his cheek. "We don't have to hide anything anymore."

"Ever since we started seeing each other, I've been struggling with guilt. Guilt for betraying Mason's trust and for keeping this from him." He paused, searching her eyes for understanding. "But now that he knows and has given us his blessing, I feel like I can finally breathe again."