50. Summer
The backyard was alive with laughter and the soft hum of conversation. Strings of twinkling lights hung between the trees, casting a warm glow over the crowd of friends and family gathered to celebrate Ava’s six-month recovery milestone. Elaine had outdone herself, organizing the event with colorful decorations, a table overflowing with food, and even a small cake adorned with Ava’s favorite character, Bunny, in the center. Ava ran through the grass, her curls bouncing as she giggled, clutching Bunny tightly in one hand. She was glowing with energy, her cheeks rosy and her smile brighter than the summer sun. Watching her play, it was hard to believe that just a few months ago, we had been sitting in a hospital room, clinging to hope.
“She looks amazing,” Elaine said, stepping beside me with a glass of lemonade. “It’s like she never missed a beat.”
“She’s a miracle,” I said softly, my heart swelling with gratitude.
“And so are you,” Elaine added, her voice full of warmth. “You and Enzo both.”
I glanced across the yard to where Enzo stood with Richard, talking and laughing with a group of friends. He caught my eye, his smile softening as he gave me a small wave.
As the evening wore on, Enzo gathered everyone near the deck for a toast. Ava stood between us, holding Bunny like a proud participant in the celebration. Enzo raised his glass, his voice steady and filled with emotion. “Thank you all for being here tonight. This isn’t just a celebration of Ava’s recovery—it’s a celebration of love, resilience, and the incredible support we’ve found in each other and all of you.” He turned to Ava, his smile widening. “And most of all, it’s a celebration of this little girl—our brave, brilliant Ava, who inspires us every single day.”
Ava giggled, burying her face in Bunny, and the crowd clapped and cheered. To our surprise, Ava tugged at my hand, her wide eyes looking up at me. “Can I say something, Mommy?”
“Of course, sweetheart,” I said, my voice soft with encouragement.
Enzo handed her the microphone, crouching beside her as she held it tightly in her small hands. “I just wanted to say thank you to everybody,” she began, her voice sweet but confident. “Thank you for helping me and Mommy and Daddy when I was sick. Bunny and I were scared, but you all made us feel brave.” She paused, her eyes shining as she looked up at me and Enzo. “And thank you to Mommy and Daddy for being the best. I love you so much.”
The crowd erupted into applause, and I couldn’t stop the tears that spilled down my cheeks. I hugged her tightly as Enzo lifted her into his arms, his own eyes shimmering with emotion. “You’re the best, Ava,” he said softly, kissing her forehead.
After the crowd settled, Enzo handed Bunny back to Ava and set her down on the grass. Then, to my surprise, he turned to me, his expression suddenly serious but full of warmth. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box, dropping to one knee in front of me.
The air seemed to still as he opened the box, revealing a simple but stunning diamond ring. “Summer,” he began, his voice steady but thick with emotion. “You are the love of my life. You’ve shown me what it means to fight for family, to love unconditionally, and to never give up. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?”
A collective gasp rippled through the crowd, followed by a hushed silence as everyone waited for my answer. My heart was pounding, my eyes overflowing with tears as I nodded. “Yes,” I whispered, my voice breaking. “A thousand times yes.”
Enzo stood, slipping the ring onto my finger before pulling me into his arms. The crowd erupted into cheers, but all I could focus on was him—the man who had stood by me through everything, who had become my rock, my partner, my everything.
As we hugged, I leaned close to his ear, my voice low but filled with emotion. “You’re going to be a great husband. And an even better father to our two kids.”
He pulled back slightly, his brows furrowing in confusion before realization dawned on his face. “Two kids?” he asked, his voice a mix of shock and awe.
The crowd, overhearing the exchange, gasped again, and Elaine let out a delighted squeal. “Are you—are we—” Enzo stammered, looking between me and my stomach.
I nodded, tears streaming down my face. “I’m pregnant.”
His face broke into the widest grin I’d ever seen before he kissed me again, his arms wrapping tightly around me. “You’re amazing,” he whispered against my lips.
Ava tugged at my dress, looking up at us with wide eyes. “Am I going to be a big sister?”
“You are,” I said, crouching down to hug her. “You’re going to be the best big sister ever.”
Ava beamed, holding Bunny up proudly. “Bunny says he’s ready too!”
The celebration carried on late into the evening, filled with laughter, hugs, and endless congratulations. As the sun set and the stars began to dot the sky, Ava climbed onto a chair, holding up her juice box. “A toast!” she announced, her voice clear and confident.
Everyone fell silent, their eyes on her. “To Mommy and Daddy and Bunny!” she said, grinning. “And to our family!”
The crowd cheered as Enzo and I raised our glasses, smiling at each other before leaning in for a kiss. In that moment, surrounded by love and laughter, I knew that we were ready to embrace whatever came next—together, as a family.
~ END ~