We Promised Forever

Today was move-in day for Emily and the girls. They hadn't even visited first—just packed up and made the drive straight to Alison's doorstep. Mona had her share of disapproving remarks, but in the end, she stood by Alison's decision. She was proud of her for taking control, for pushing Emily to come. Losing Alison would've been too painful for Mona.

"Well, look who it is," Mona said with a dry edge, her arms open in a half-hearted greeting. Emily stepped forward, tossing her bag into them instead. "Hi, Mona."

"A little rude for a hello, Emily Fields."

Instead of responding, Emily turned to open the backseat door. In a flash, Lily and Grace came tumbling out, eyes wide as they scanned the front of the house. Alison opened her door and was immediately tackled by the twins, who leapt into her arms, giggling.

While Mona grumbled and reluctantly carried Emily's tossed bag inside, Emily bent down to grab more. "Still don't like her," Mona muttered under her breath as she passed through the doorway where Alison stood. The girls rushed in ahead of her, eager to explore. Alison shot Mona a knowing smile before hurrying out to Emily.

She slipped her arms around Emily from behind, startling her enough to drop everything she was holding. Alison didn't loosen her grip right away—just held her tightly, like she was grounding herself. When Emily turned to face her, Alison cupped her face in both hands and kissed her over and over again, unable to stop. Her lips trembled slightly as they moved against Emily's.

"I love you," Alison whispered breathlessly, forehead pressed to Emily's, their eyes fluttering shut.

"I love you too," Emily said softly, a smile growing on her face as she wrapped her arms around Alison. She rocked them gently, pulling Alison off the ground in a playful lift. Alison held her head close, nuzzling into the familiar scent that made her feel like home.

"Alright, that's enough of that," Mona called dryly, scooping a bag from the ground. "Oh, and Grace managed to unravel an entire roll of toilet paper in the bathroom, by the way."

"You didn't think to stop her?" Emily asked, one brow raised as she glanced back, still holding Alison close.

"Me? Oh, no. Why would I ruin the fun?" Mona shrugged and offered Alison a mischievous grin before turning and disappearing into the house again. "She is..."

"Before you say anything—she's a good friend to me," Alison murmured, brushing her fingers across Emily's cheek with tenderness.

"You really trust her?" Emily asked, her voice quieter now.

"I do."

Emily sighed and turned toward the car, intent on finishing the unloading. But Alison's hand slipped around her waist, pulling her back. "Hey—not so fast."

"Ali—" Emily began, but was cut off when Alison cradled her face once more and leaned in slowly, savoring the kiss that followed. She melted into her again, letting her lips linger. "Welcome home," she whispered.

By evening, they were mostly settled in. The twins had fallen asleep early, worn out from the excitement and the long trip. Mona had stayed to help, throwing her usual snarky remarks at Emily all night, which Alison found increasingly entertaining. Watching them bicker was like watching old friends begrudgingly care for each other in their own chaotic way.

Alison curled up on the couch, a glass of wine in hand. "How you feeling, mama?" Mona teased, collapsing beside her before Emily could take the spot. Emily, already annoyed, dropped into the armchair across the room with a sigh.

"Very tired. But thank you for helping today," Alison said with a soft smile.

"You know I don't mind," Mona replied, waving her off.