Hot Ride (Summer Lovin’)

Epilogue

Scarlett

The familiar thrill of coming home courses through me as our private jet touches down, the wheels hitting the tarmac with a gentle bump.

It's been a whirlwind year touring with Jett, a rollercoaster of stadiums, screaming fans, and late nights, but nothing compares to the comfort of this small town and the people who mean everything to us.

The sight of the familiar landscape outside the window makes my heart swell with nostalgia and anticipation.

Jett takes my hand as we descend the stairs, our fingers intertwined as if they were made to fit together. His touch sends a spark through me, just like it did the first time.

As we step onto solid ground, I squeeze his hand a little tighter, grateful for this moment of peace amidst our chaotic lives.

A bright smile stretches across his face when he spots Daniel waiting on the tarmac, one arm slung around Jessica's shoulders while she cradles one of the twins.

My heart swells at the sight of them, reminding me of the family we've missed during our time away.

In a few long strides, Jett sweeps his best friend into a tight embrace. "Missed you, man," he murmurs gruffly, his voice thick with emotion.

I can't help but notice the way his muscles flex beneath his shirt as he hugs Daniel, and I quickly avert my gaze, feeling a flush creep up my neck.

Daniel's laugh is deep and rich as he claps Jett on the back. "Yeah, you too, rock star."

The familiar nickname rolls off his tongue, a reminder of the years of friendship between them. I find myself smiling.

There's a glimmer of pride in Daniel's eyes as he looks at Jett, silently acknowledging how far we've all come.

It's a sweet moment.

I hang back, giving the two friends a moment.

Jessica steps forward and wraps her free arm around me. The warmth of her embrace and the soft gurgle of the baby in her arms instantly puts me at ease.

"Scarlett," she breathes, her voice filled with warmth and affection. "It's so good to see you.”

Tears prick my eyes as I breathe in her familiar scent—a mix of baby powder and the lavender lotion she loves.

"I've missed this place. Missed all of you so much."

The words feel inadequate to express the depth of my emotions, but Jessica's understanding smile tells me she knows.

We pull apart, and I can't resist leaning down to coo at the tiny bundle nestled against Jessica's chest.

The baby's eyes, wide and curious, lock onto mine, My heart melts a little. It's amazing how quickly these little ones can wrap you around their finger.

The twins are wearing matching yellow onesies, making it hard to tell them apart yet. Their chubby cheeks and button noses are nearly identical.

"Which peanut is this little one?" I ask, gently tickling the baby's foot.

"Wyatt," Daniel proudly supplies, his chest puffing out slightly.

The pride in his voice is unmistakable, and I can't help but smile at my brother's obvious joy.

"He's growing!" I exclaim, marveling at how much the baby has changed since I last saw him. It's incredible how fast they develop at this age.

Daniel gestures to a nearby stroller. “Emma’s asleep.”

I peek into the stroller, careful not to wake my niece, her little fists curled up near her face as she dreams.

I watch as Jett leans over the stroller. His face transforms, a gentle smile replacing his usual smirk. I’ve never seen this side of him before—the tough, cocky rockstar melting at the sight of these tiny humans.

Jett's finger traces the curve of Emma's cheek, feather-light and careful. "Hey there, princess," he coos.

He looks up at me, catching my gaze. His eyes are filled with a warmth I've never seen before.

"She's perfect," he murmurs.

My heart swells as I imagine Jett as a father someday.

I picture him cradling our baby, singing lullabies. The Jett in my mind is patient and loving, his wild energy channeled into being the best father he can be.

His laugh echoes in my head, playing peek-a-boo. I can picture the pride shining in his eyes watching our child's first wobbly steps.

He'd probably be the fun parent, the one who lets the kids stay up past bedtime and sneaks them candy before dinner. But he'd also be fiercely protective, ready to move mountains to keep his family safe.

I suddenly remember the gift I've been carrying around.

"Oh! Jess, I almost forgot," I exclaim, turning to my sister-in-law with a grin. "I picked up another bottle of that lavender lotion you love so much. You know, from that little place in Paris?"

Jessica's eyes light up. "You didn't! Oh, Scarlett, you're the best!"

It's not often I get to surprise her like this. I rummage through my carry-on bag, pushing aside a tangle of chargers and a half-eaten bag of airplane pretzels.

"Ta-da!" I present the elegantly wrapped package to Jessica.

"It's perfect. Thank you so much." She shifts the baby to her other arm. "I can't wait to hear all about your adventures. You have to tell me everything!"

I laugh, feeling a warmth spread through my chest. "Trust me, I've got plenty of stories to share."

As Jessica chatters excitedly about wanting to hear every detail, my hand instinctively moves to rest on my stomach.

A secret smile plays on my lips as I think about the biggest news of all – the one we're waiting to share with everyone.

Jett steps closer, wrapping an arm around my waist. "Nice one, babe," he murmurs in my ear, his breath tickling my skin.

I lean into him, savoring his solid presence. My heart flutters, and I bite my lip to keep from blurting out our secret.

"Well," Daniel chimes in, bouncing Wyatt gently, "as much as I'd love to stand around talking all day, what do you say we head home? Mom's been cooking up a storm since dawn, and I'm pretty sure she's invited half the town for dinner."

I laugh. Some things never change, and my mom's tendency to go overboard for family gatherings is definitely one of them.

The next evening, we gather at Daniel and Jessica's for the christening ceremony. Their living room's been transformed into a cozy sanctuary, with flickering candles and sweet-smelling blooms creating a warm, hallowed ambiance.

Jett stands close beside me, our bodies almost touching. I'm cradling little Wyatt, marveling at his tiny fingers and peaceful expression.

Jett's holding Emma with unexpected gentleness, his muscular hands delicately supporting her tiny body.

As we solemnly make our sacred vows as godparents, a powerful wave of emotion almost brings me to my knees.

The faith that Daniel and Jessica have put in us—in me—is staggering. I blink back tears, determined not to smudge my mascara.

Glancing around at my family's faces, I recall all the magnificent churches and elaborate cathedrals Jett and I have explored while touring.

Although we've gazed in wonder at age-old stained glass windows, there's something uniquely extraordinary, almost enchanting about this modest, sincere ceremony happening in the very house where our tale began.

Our journey from tension to understanding has brought us full circle. We're back where it all began.

After the ceremony, we linger in the backyard for a celebration. The crisp night air caresses my skin, sending a slight shiver down my spine as Daniel passes around bottles of his home-brewed beer.

Across the yard, Daniel catches my eye and grins, raising his beer bottle in a silent toast. The look in his eyes says it all—he's happy for us, for the life we've built together against all odds.

I return the gesture, my heart swelling with love for this crazy patchwork family of ours. These people ground me.

I tilt my head back, seeking Jett's lips. He meets me halfway, our kiss deep and achingly tender. In this moment, everything is perfect.

Jessica cuts into the cherry pie, the sweet aroma filling the air around me. The flaky crust gives way to tart cherries oozing their ruby juices. One bite and I'm back at Maggie’s diner.

Jett's arm slides around my waist. “Are you remembering our road trip?”

"How could I forget?" I tease lightly, tilting my head to meet his gaze. "It all started with a slice of pie."

Jett chuckles, the deep rumble vibrating against my back as his arms around me tighten. "Now we're godparents and building a life on the road. Who'd have thought a rock star and accountant could make it work?"

I nestle closer, tracing a lazy pattern on his forearm. "I wouldn't have believed it," I murmur. "But I'm so grateful we took that chance. On the trip and us."

I pause, letting out a contented sigh. "Even if it means enduring your crazy tour schedule and obsession with hair products."

Jett's eyes gleam mischievously as he leans close, his lips grazing my ear.

"You knew the deal," he teases playfully. "The hair products stay. How else can I keep this tousled look the fans love?"

I laugh, shaking my head. "Oh, that's your secret? Not your talent and charisma?"

"Well, that too," he concedes with a grin, pulling me closer. "But let's be real, babe. The hair is at least fifty percent of my appeal."

I roll my eyes, but I can't fight the smile. This is the Jett I love—making me laugh at odd times, never too full of himself despite his stardom.

"You're impossible," I murmur, but there's no heat behind my words.

"Impossibly charming, you mean," he counters, wiggling his eyebrows in an exaggerated manner.

I snort, swatting at his chest. "More like impossibly full of yourself."

But even as I say it, I know it's not true.

"You love it," he whispers, his breath warm against my skin.

And I do. I love every part of him – the silly and the serious, the public and the private. I love the way he makes me feel like the most important person in the world.

As Jett twists a lock of my hair around his finger, giving it a gentle tug, a familiar heat blooms in my core.

"You know," he murmurs, his voice low and husky, "I've always loved your hair. So soft, so silky."

I shudder, my eyes fluttering closed. It's tempting, so tempting to just give in, to let him take me right here against the wall...

But we can't. Not with my family just inside, not with the risk of someone walking out and catching us.

"Jett, wait." I press my hands against his chest, feeling the solid heat of him through his shirt. "We can't do this here."

His eyes, dark and intense, lock onto mine. "I know," he says, a mischievous grin playing on his lips. "Doesn't make me want you any less, though."

I wet my lips, very aware of the heat building between us. Boldly, I trail a finger along the neckline of his shirt, tracing the hard planes of his chest.

"Later," I promise, my voice husky with desire. "When we're alone, I'm all yours."

His eyes blaze at the promise in my words. "I'm going to hold you to that."

He groans, the sound vibrating straight through me and pooling heat low in my belly. "You're killing me here, Scar."

"Down, boy. We're at my brother's house, remember?"

Laughing, I give him a gentle shove just as Daniel rounds the corner.

Daniel grumbles something about needing a cold shower.

Jett's arms firmly lock around me before he whispers, "To be continued."

The following day, we visit Maggie. Daniel lets us borrow the Mustang for the drive. For old times' sake, he says with a wink that makes me wonder if he suspects something.

As Jett pulls into the gravel parking lot, I steal a glance, wondering if he feels the same excitement that I do.

Jett's hand rests on the small of my back as we enter the store. I scan the room, searching for Maggie.

There's a clatter from the kitchen, and suddenly she's there, her apron dusted with flour and her face lighting up with surprise.

"Scarlett? Jett? Oh my goodness!" she exclaims, rushing towards us with open arms.

"If it isn't my two favorite road-trippers!" she says, beaming, her smile as bright as I remember. "What a wonderful surprise! I can't believe my eyes!"

Maggie wraps me in a warm hug that smells of cinnamon and home.

"We couldn't come back without visiting," Jett says.

She pulls back, holding me at arm's length as she gives me an appraising look. Her face breaks into a warm, motherly smile that makes my heart swell.

"Well now, don't you just have the most beautiful glow about you, sugar?" She pats my cheek affectionately. "I'd know that light anywhere—it's the look of a woman in love."

My cheeks flush, and I duck my head shyly, suddenly aware of the sparkling diamond solitaire on my left ring finger.

Maggie's gaze locks onto the sparkler, her eyes widening. "Is that what I think it is?"

Jett just chuckles, that deep, rumbling laugh that never fails to make my knees go weak. "You know I had to lock it down eventually, Mags."

She looks at Jett, giving him an approving nod. "It's about damn time you made this one an honest woman, boy!"

I nod, unable to contain my grin. "Jett proposed last month."

"Well, don't just stand there gawking at me! Sit yourselves down and tell me all about it!"

As we sit, the vinyl seats creaking, I'm struck by how much has changed since our last visit.

Jett's hand finds mine under the table. His touch still makes me tingle.

"Actually, Maggie," Jett says, voice soft and full of feeling, "we got some more news to tell you."

He puts his hand on my belly, still flat for now.

"Scarlett's pregnant," he says, eyes shining bright with happiness. "Can you believe it? We're gonna be parents."

Pregnant. With our child—something I've dreamed about for so long.

A lump forms in my throat, happy tears pricking my eyes as I nod, overwhelmed. My hand covers Jett's on my stomach, our fingers intertwining over our precious secret.

Jett's smile spans his face as he announces our secret to everyone present. "We've got a little one on the way!"

His enthusiasm is infectious, and despite my aversion to attention, I can't help but beam alongside him.

The other diners break into applause and joyful cheers.

Maggie clasps her palms together excitedly. "Now that's the most wonderful news I've heard!"

Jett makes a sweeping motion with his arm. "Dessert's my treat, everyone! A slice for each table to mark the occasion!"

The diner erupts in cheers and whistles as Maggie heads off to fetch fresh pies from the oven.

I playfully swat at Jett's chest. "Show off," I tease, but there's no real bite to my words.

Jett just shrugs, completely unapologetic.

"I'm not showing off," he says, that familiar roguish grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. "I'm just being me."

He leans in closer, the heady scent of his cologne wrapping around me like a warm embrace. His eyes, the color of rich whiskey, sparkle with mischief and something deeper—an intensity that still makes my heart skip a beat.

"You're going to have to get used to this, Scar." His voice is low, meant only for my ears despite the diner full of onlookers. "I plan on spoiling you rotten. Pampering my baby mama is just the start."

A delicious shiver runs down my spine at his words, at the casual possessiveness in his tone. He knows exactly what he's doing to me with that heated look and those sinfully tempting lips.

Clearing my throat, I try for a nonchalant shrug. "Is that so?"

But the slight hitch in my breath gives me away. Jett's gaze darkens infinitesimally, and I know he's heard the tremor of anticipation in my voice.

Damn him for affecting me so easily, even after all this time.

"Mmhmm." He nods slowly, eyes roving over me in a way that makes me feel deliciously bare despite being fully clothed. "Get ready for the full rock star treatment, baby."

There's that shiver again, a delightful tingle that dances across my skin. I bite my lip, torn between rolling my eyes at his overconfident swagger and just giving in to the simmering want that's rapidly building inside me.

Before I can formulate a snarky reply, Maggie returns with a towering stack of steaming hot pies—cherry, pecan, and what looks like a sinfully gooey chocolate creation.

"Here we are, dears!" she chirps, carefully setting down the desserts. The mouthwatering aroma of butter, sugar, and baked fruit wafts through the air. "A celebratory treat for the expecting parents!"

As the diner fills with the mouthwatering aroma of warm pie and the buzz of joyful conversation, I can't resist pulling Jett down for a lingering kiss. "I love you," I murmur against his lips. "So damn much."

Jett's fingers find my chin, tilting my face up until our eyes meet. "Me too. You and me, babe. Forever."

His kiss tastes like cherry pie and a love deeper than anything I could have ever imagined. And in this moment, surrounded by the warmth of community and the sanctuary of home, I know without a doubt that this is exactly where we're meant to be.

This man—this amazing, complicated, passionate man—is mine. My partner, my best friend, my everything. I never could have imagined this future for us, but I'm incredibly grateful we took that leap.