Page 21 of Falling for the Single Dad Firefighter

Jax pours himself a mug and leans against the counter, his easy smile in place. "So, house hunting today? Sam mentioned you two were looking at that place closer to the lake."

"This afternoon," I confirm. "With the baby coming, we need a little more space."

"Good timing," he nods. "Housing market's finally calming down around here."

I study him as he sips his coffee, noting the slight shadows under his eyes, the brief moment when his smile slips as he glances out the window at Samuel and Mia. There's something there—aflicker of longing, perhaps, or quiet reflection—before his usual carefree expression returns.

"You know you're welcome anytime at the new place too," I tell him. "We couldn't get through a move without Uncle Jax."

His smile turns genuine. "Wouldn't miss it. Someone's gotta teach that kid of yours all the bad stuff."

Samuel and Mia burst through the back door, cheeks flushed from the cool morning air, carrying a small basket of late tomatoes and herbs. Mia launches herself at Jax, and soon the kitchen is filled with laughter.

In the happy chaos, Samuel makes his way to my side, slipping an arm around my waist and pressing a kiss to my temple.

"Happy?" he murmurs, his voice for me alone.

I lean into him, watching Mia demonstrate her cartwheel technique for Jax. "Completely," I answer truthfully. "You?"

His hand finds mine, thumb brushing over my wedding band. "More than I ever thought possible."

Outside, autumn leaves dance on a gentle breeze, red and gold against the clear blue sky. Inside, the walls of this house hold our laughter, our memories, the thousand small moments that have brought us here.

Not just a house, but a home. Not just people who love each other, but a family.