Page 80 of Nora

Cyn, Joe, Six, and Gavin joined the other two couples at the large table Lucian had set out for food and drinks. It was a bit beastly to be outside this time of year—August, like January, in New England was not for the faint of heart, but the couples chatted animatedly as Gavin poured wine, champagne, and sparkling water, then passed the glasses around.

“Another Pimm’s?” Cyn called.

Franklin glanced at Old Joe, and both rose to join the group.

“Please,” he said, handing his cup over.

“Beer, Joe?” Cyn’s Joe offered, already handing his uncle a fresh bottle.

When everyone had their drinks, Cyn raised hers up. Everyone else followed. “Happy Massachusetts Day!” she exclaimed. Everyone echoed her toast and clinked glasses. It was an odd holiday, although calling it a holiday was a bit of a misnomer. Cyn had assured him it was a real thing, but no shops or banks were closed. And it certainly didn’t show up on his calendar.

Regardless, he looked at his four favorite people, and the men they’d invited into their lives. Whatever they called the day didn’t matter.

They all had a lot to celebrate.

THE END