Chapter Ten

The huge smile stretching Luca's lips was out of his control. He clutched his backpack against his chest as he walked toward his friends at The PlayPen. He swore he felt Jarek's pride-filled stare burning his skin and following him to his friend group. Luca had never been happier. After two months of officially living with Jarek, Luca felt more comfortable in his skin than ever before. He had come to terms with a lot of things. Today, he couldn't wait to spend time with Jupiter, Soren, and Kyson. They had easily become his very best friends.

He waved as he headed their way. The three waved back, looking happy to see him. It was so nice to fit in. He sat in their circle. "Hey, guys. I have something for you."

All three leaned forward as Luca unzipped his backpack. First, he passed out three cream-colored envelopes before unpacking his teacups and a bottle of champagne. He waited until his friends read their wedding invitations before popping the cork.

Jupiter was the first to react. "Oh, my gosh. You're getting married."

"And you're doing it here so we can have a pajama wedding," Kyson said, sounding excited.

"Congratulations." Soren stole the first hug before the others joined.

Luca held up the bottle. "Daddy got us some champagne. He says this is the good stuff. I have no idea, but I hoped we could have a tea party celebration."

The three enthusiastically held out their cups to be filled. They clicked them together like making a toast before sipping.

Soren was the first to giggle. "That tickled my nose."

Kyson pulled a face. "I'm not sure I like the flavor." His face lit. "I'm still going to drink it, though."

They laughed and took another drink.

Jupiter's gaze moved past Luca. His spine seemed to straighten a hair. Boone and Jarek joined them. The three scooted around, making room for two more people. Luca poured them a cup.

"I hear congratulations are in order," Boone said, accepting his tiny cup. It looked twice as minuscule in his thick hand.

Luca beamed at him. "I'm so excited."

"I'm happy for you, little one. You two deserve a good life."

He sounded so sincere, Luca's eyes burned. Jarek hugged him against his side while Luca hid his reaction. He had never dreamed this could be his life. That he could be this accepted. Everyone tried talking at once while Luca continued refilling cups. He couldn't help but notice the way Jupiter's gaze kept returning to Boone. Luca chided himself. He was happy. Maybe he saw things that weren't there, since he wanted everyone to feel the way he did. Then he noticed Boone subtly shifting closer to Jupiter. A smile exploded across his face. Maybe Boone would find his own happily ever after soon enough. Luca wanted that for all of them. His gaze slid Jarek's way. He found Jarek staring back at him. Something silent and powerful passed between them. They had been meant to meet that summer night. Life had turned out exactly as fate intended. Luca felt that in his soul.

"I love you." Jarek silently mouthed the words, making Luca's heart soar. This was love. It was happiness. Real happiness. It was the life Luca had prayed to have. He would never take it for granted.

Keep an eye out for the next Little Lost, In Daddy's Hands .