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“Shit. They must’ve all known what I’d do,” Carlee whispers, her voice barely audible. “Looks like we already have a crowd. Hope you’re ready to steal the spotlight.”
“I was born for this.” I get out and stride confidently around to the other side, then open the door for her.
She steps out, and our eyes lock, and an unspoken connection flows between us. She reaches out and clasps my hand, our fingers interlocking. It’s electric and grounding. A pang of anxiety greetsme because I want her family to welcome me with open arms, to embrace me like I’m marrying Carlee. Because I am.
She takes a deep breath as I rub my thumb gently across hers.
“Relax, gorgeous. It’s going to be fantastic. Promise.”
I’m used to purposely stealing attention from Easton, doing my best to make him comfortable in social situations. Carlee isn’t much different; she wants to be seen bymeand no one else. It’s difficult to balance, but I understand.
“You can do this,” I assure her.
Carlee steadies herself, taking a deep breath as her fingers brush the doorknob. Before she can twist it, the door swings open with a smooth creak. Standing before us is a silver-haired woman, her green eyes sparkling in the golden hour of the evening. Her brows lift as she appraises me, a smile breaking across her face.
“Well, you did real good, Leelee,” she says, reaching toward me and giving my biceps a hearty squeeze that feels like a warm welcome.
“Mawmaw,” Carlee whispers, hugging her tight. “Please meet Weston Calloway. The man I’m going to marry.”
I fucking love hearing her say that. “Hello. It’s very lovely to meet you.”
“That voice,” Mawmaw exclaims, waggling her brows as she steps onto the porch, the door closing behind her with a thud. She crosses her arms over her chest and a glimmer of mischief darts in her eyes. “Who are you staying with while you’re here?”
“We haven’t decided yet,” Carlee explains, casting me a cautious glance.
“Great. You’re boarding with me,” Mawmaw declares, her tone leaving no room for argument. “Your sister is currently camped at your mother’s, and she’s been acting like a completeyou know what, now that she got that new job. She needs dead silence during the day because she’s doing virtual interior design consultations or something. Driving us all insane.”
“Mom’s gonna be pissed,” Carlee whispers.
I can’t help but smile.
“I’ll deal with her,” Mawmaw tells us, her voice firm yet warm. “So, it’s settled then. You’re both my guests of honor.”
I glance at Carlee, who gives me a nervous smile. I play it cool. “I’m honored. We appreciate your hospitality.”
“I like you already, Weston. Now, you two come in out of the cold. Brace yourselves. They’re feisty,” she says, leading us into the living room, which is bustling with people.
I quickly take in the scene—a woman who must be her mother, two brothers, and another guy I don’t recognize, but their shared green eyes tell me they’re all family.
Carlee squeezes my hand tighter, and I respond by squeezing hers back—a silent promise of support.
The TV plays in the background, setting the mood while the fireplace roars passionately. Crocheted blankets are draped artfully over the back of the couch. The aromas of freshly brewed coffee and baked cake waft through the air, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like home.
“Hi, y’all! Wow, I didn’t know you were throwing a party,” Carlee exclaims, her smile bright. I can tell she’s nervous. “It smells incredible.”
“I hurried and whipped up a strawberry cake for you. It’s got about ten more minutes to bake. Everyone, this is Weston Calloway, Carlee’s fiancé. The two of them are staying with me while they’re here,” Mawmaw adds warmly.
Sly woman.
“Excuse me?” Carlee’s mother interjects, her tone laced with surprise. “I thought you’d stay with us.”
“Sorry, Mom. You know Mawmaw makes the rules round here,” Carlee replies.
“That’s right,” her grandma asserts, a proud smile stretching across her face. “Would you two like some coffee? I’ve got a pot brewing in the kitchen.”
“That’s a great idea after our long flight. We’ll be right back,” Carlee says, guiding me down the hallway.
She takes a deep breath, and I can sense her trying to shake off the lingering tension.