Page 8

Mom chuckled. “Enough teasing, you lot! There’s plenty of love to go around in this family. Let’s enjoy our dinner before it gets cold.”

As chopsticks danced over steaming bowls of food, a hush fell over the table. Layla cleared her throat making all eyes turn to her.

“So, there’s something I wanted to share...” She paused as though to build suspense before continuing, “I’m engaged!”

The room erupted in cheers and congratulations. Mom, already wiping happy tears from her eyes, reached across the table and squeezed Layla’s hand. “Oh, honey, that’s wonderful news! We’re so happy for you!”

“Thanks, Mom!”

“We have so much to plan! The venue, the dress...” Mom trailed off.

“Congratulations, kiddo! We’re so happy for you.” Dad smiles.

Jamie, her heart overflowing with joy for her sister, reached across the table and squeezed her hand. “I’m so thrilled for you, Layla! Tell us everything!”

The evening transformed into a celebration of her upcoming nuptials. Stories flowed, memories were shared, and laughter filled the space.

Amidst the chatter, Mom turned towards Jamie. “Now, Jamie, with a wedding to plan, we need to make sure everyone looks their best.” Her gaze landed on Mikey, who was polishing off his second bowl of rice. “Maybe you can help your brother shed a few pounds before the big day?”

Mikey groaned theatrically. “Here we go again with the health lectures. Can’t a guy enjoy a slice or two in peace?”

“You should really consider joining Jamie’s healthy eating bandwagon so you wouldn’t be looking a little...rounder on Layla’s big day, would you?”

“Mom, I’m chubby, maybe, but don’t talk like I’m obese? Come on!”

“Oh please. Have you seen your belly lately? I almost mistook you for your pregnant cousin Linh!”

The room erupted in laughter, Mikey included.

Dad, ever the peacekeeper, chuckled. “Mai, leave the boy alone. I’m sure girls love a guy with a little extra padding.”

Mom snorted. “You wish! Ask Jamie here, she knows what girls really like—abs and muscles!”

“But it didn’t rank first for you, did it, Mai? You used to say you liked my ‘teddy bear’ build.”

He winked at Mom, who swatted his arm. “Don’t twist my words, old man! I was just trying to boost your confidence.”

“Are you saying you lied about liking my belly?”

Mom rolled her eyes. “That’s besides the point!”

“Mom, isn’t that hypocritical? You hate my brother’s belly but love Dad’s?” Layla says.

Jamie, seeing an opportunity to support both Mom and Mikey’s health, jumped in. “I mean, maybe all those late-night pizzas and the beer aren’t doing you any favors, bro.”

Mikey, predictably, wasn’t thrilled. “Can’t all be wasting our days with woo woo yoga and kale smoothies like you little sis! I like to live a little.”

The bickering and teasing continued throughout the rest of the meal.

Jamie knew they all loved each other and nobody really cared about Mikey’s belly.

4

JESS

With a forkful of fluffy scrambled eggs demolished, Jess attacked the mountain of crispy bacon with a satisfied grunt.

It was a well-deserved post-torture breakfast, especially after witnessing the glorious display of agony (and eventual triumph) on the training field.