Shannon Lynch had become the center of your world.

You’d been captivated by her ever since high school, from the moment you accidentally knocked her out with a rugby ball and gave her a concussion. She’d cursed you out while cradling her head, and you’d been helplessly drawn to her ever since. No one—no one—had ever occupied your thoughts the way Shannon did. She was different, and it got under your skin. Every waking moment, she was there, in your mind, and it drove you mad.

What infuriated you most was how effortlessly she had you wrapped around her finger without even trying. Shannon didn’t know the hold she had on you, but despite the overwhelming emotions you felt, you were just friends—if you could even call it that. Whatever it was, she meant everything to you.

Years later, life brought you together in ways you never expected. Graduating, building a life, and eventually marrying Shannon—the love of your life—was more than you ever thought you’d deserve. And when she told you she was pregnant, you were over the moon. Ecstatic didn’t even begin to describe it.

Your rugby career was thriving, but nothing compared to the joy of knowing Shannon was by your side, carrying your baby. It felt like everything had fallen into place. Your life was full, complete.

On Christmas Day, that fullness grew even greater when you and Shannon welcomed your first child into the world—a baby boy named Rory. Weighing a solid ten pounds and one ounce, he arrived in the early hours of the morning after a long labor and an emergency cesarean section. The moment you laid eyes on him, you were absolutely smitten.

Sitting by Shannon’s bedside, holding your son, you felt like the luckiest man alive. Shannon was recovering well, Rory was perfect, and your little family had never felt more whole. It was a Christmas you’d never forget—the day your life truly began.