Epilogue Max

“ H ow’s it going, angel?” I stand in the doorway watching as Lexi sighs and pulls off her glasses, rubbing at her temple and nose.

“I’ve got the payroll done and everyone’s Christmas bonuses all set up. Just about done. I’ll be heading home soon.”

“I’ll wait.”

I sit down on the couch in the room and she smiles at me. “You know that’s not necessary.”

“You must be delirious if you think I’m gonna leave you here alone when you’re seven months pregnant. I’ll wait.”

She rolls her eyes. “It’s the middle of the day. The bar is chock-full of staff. I’m not alone.”

I lean back into the cushions and growl. “Doesn’t matter. If I’m not here you’re alone.”

She grins at me. “You’re full of yourself, you know that.”

A smile curls my lips. “You’d miss me if I left.”

“Sadly, you’re right,” she mutters under her breath.

“I know I am.”

“Hey, guys!” Mel knocks on the door. “I hate to bug you guys but I have to go home. My dad is sick again.”

I stand up and head over to her. “You need a ride, Mel.”

She shakes her head. “No. I’m good. It’s getting close…”. Her voice trails off and we both see the tears in her eyes.

“Go home. Take care of your dad. We’re good here.”

Her head cocks and she sniffs. “Are you sure?”

“Yep. And don’t worry about your shifts. Just let me know what time you need.”

“I need the money, Max.”

Lexi stands up and she scuttles to her, holding her hands out. Mel takes them and holds tight. “Hey! Don’t you worry about your paycheck. You take the time. We’ll take care of you, Mel. You’re family.”

That’s my girl. She’s adopted this little family that adopted her. Mel has become a good friend to her and it’s been rough watching her deal with her dad’s sickness and her brother’s stupidity.

“I can’t let you do that…” she protests but my Lexi shoves her out the door.

“Go. Be with your dad. He’s family. Family always comes first. And don’t you ever forget that you’re a part of our family too, Mel. Family looks after family.” There’ s a stubborn tilt to her chin and we both see it.

“If you’re sure.”

“Go. Take care of your dad. Take care of you.” She nods her head and ducks out the door but not before we both see the tears slipping down her cheeks.

“Have Bryce take her home,” Lexi says. “Or you do it. She can’t drive like that. It’s too dangerous…”. Her voice trails off and I know she’s thinking about her parents.

“I’ll take her. But don’t you dare leave.” I kiss her hard before I turn, grab my jacket and stalk after Mel. “I’ll spank your ass red.”

Her lips curl when I turn back. “Promises, promises.”

That’s my girl. My forever girl.

Caring, sweet and just plain good. I don’t deserve her but I’m sure as hell never letting her go.

My Christmas angel is always going to be mine.