From Best Friend To Fiancé (Savannah and Roman) novel Chapter 29

**Chapter 29: Dreams Folding Into Broken Time**

By the time we descended the staircase, we appeared to be just another couple, perhaps even a tad too idyllic for the casual observer.

I was clad in a comfortable pair of dungarees, while Roman opted for a pair of shorts paired with a crisp white cotton shirt. We blended seamlessly into the scene, looking almost ordinary.

But perhaps we were too ordinary.

As we entered the room, my gaze was immediately drawn to Emily, who radiated an ethereal glow, seated regally at the heart of the gathering, much like a queen returning to her kingdom. A festive birthday cone perched jauntily atop her head, and a magnificent cake, so grand it could easily be mistaken for the centerpiece of her own birthday celebration, sat invitingly before her.

Her hair was elegantly braided into a French plait, framing her face, which sparkled with the vitality of youth. Beside her plate of lasagna lay her beloved stuffed unicorn, a silent companion amidst the merriment. The atmosphere was alive with the clinking of champagne glasses, the rich aroma of wine, and the decadent scent of red velvet cake, all while family members filled every nook and cranny of the room.

Even Aunt Carol, Lizzie’s mother, had made an appearance, adding to the vibrant tapestry of family moments unfolding around us.

Alyssa’s face lit up like a firework upon spotting Roman. She silently mouthed a quick ‘be right back’ to Uncle Jace, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she made her way towards us.

In an instant, she enveloped Roman in a warm embrace, her voice a soft whisper, “Thank you so much.”

I stood awkwardly to the side, my hands clasped behind my back, observing the tender exchange as if I were a mere bystander in a world that felt both familiar and distant.

The infectious tune of “The Wheels on the Bus” blared through the speakers, and I watched as Dad and Emily joyfully sang along, their laughter mingling with the melody. Dad threw his head back, his laughter booming every time Emily missed a step in the song, a clear testament to the love he held for her.

From my vantage point, I could feel that love radiating, even from a distance.

A sudden wave of longing washed over me as I unconsciously placed my hand on my stomach, a haunting reminder of what could have been. Would he have shared that same joy and affection for my child had fate allowed it to thrive?

But who was I kidding? Dad had ensured it never saw the light of day.

My thoughts were abruptly interrupted as Alyssa unexpectedly pulled me into a bone-crushing hug that nearly knocked the breath out of me.

“Thank you, Sav. I owe you my daughter’s life.”

Her eyes shimmered with unshed tears, a testament to her overwhelming gratitude.

“Oh, Alyssa, nonsense,” I replied, attempting to brush off her words. “I love Emily. We’re family.”

She glanced over at Roman, who was engrossed in a lively discussion with Mom and Aunt Thelma. Mom said something that sent Aunt Thelma into a fit of laughter, and as Roman caught my eye, a shared smile passed between us.

Mom noticed our connection and nudged Aunt Thelma, and they both erupted into giggles, reminiscent of schoolgirls sharing a secret.

Feeling the heat rise in my cheeks, I quickly averted my gaze.

“Thank you for bringing him into our lives and our family. I will forever be indebted to you, Sav.” Alyssa’s grip on my hands was firm, her sincerity palpable.

I bit my lip, grappling with the urge to voice my concerns. It felt like an elephant in the room, and yet, it was gnawing at me, demanding to be addressed.

Swallowing hard, I gently pulled Alyssa away from the festive laughter and music, guiding her toward the quieter space beneath the staircase—a sanctuary away from Emily’s sparkling eyes and Roman’s serene smile beside her.

“Alyssa,” I began, my tone measured and careful, “about Emily…”

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