Page 100 of Structure of Love

“I love her.”

“Your new phone and laptop are also waiting for you in your room.”

She hugged my arm for a second. “You’re the best big brother in the world. I’ve got awesome brothers. And thanks, Gage, for backing us up.”

“You’re quite welcome.”

“You’ll stay for my party?”

“Absolutely. Wouldn’t miss it. Well, I have to pop out and do something, but I’ll come back.”

“Cool. You should at least get cake for helping with my rescue.”

“I take cake as a form of payment, for sure.”

I didn’t ask how she felt, as it was kind of obvious in some ways. She’d likely be sorting through emotions for a while yet, so I’d already set up a therapist for her, too. She had a lot to unpack, much like I had, and it was better she start on that sooner rather than later.

When we pulled into my driveway, our grandmother’s car was already parked on the side parking pad.

I stepped out, grabbed Erin’s bag, and ushered her in. Sadly, she’d never once visited my house—our parents wouldn’t have allowed it—so this was her first time seeing it. She took it in, nodding in approval.

“It’s really cute. Not at all what I expected from you.”

“Why, ’cause there’s no tire hanging off a tree limb?”

“Well, no, you like things neat. I just didn’t expect cute from you.” Erin didn’t even slow down, instead waltzing right through the front door. “Grandma, I’m here!”

Grandma was in the kitchen, as per usual, but she immediately bustled out when summoned. She swooped in to give Erin a hug, and that hug went both ways.

“How did it go?” Grandma asked anxiously.

“Lots of yelling, some denials, but apparently Mom had realized Erin was gay because the reveal wasn’t a surprise to her. She didn’t fight as hard as I expected, meaning no punches were thrown. More yelling than anything. Bad enough both Zar and Madison had to intervene.”

Gage shrugged, hands splayed. “That’s fine, they expected to. So long as you two made a clean escape, it was worth the effort.”

Erin looked around, all while plucking at her skirt. “Don’t take this wrong, but I’m dying to get out of this fucking outfit.”

“There’s a pit in the backyard if you want to burn it later,” I offered.

Erin cackled. Looney Tunes cackled. “Yes! Such a wonderful idea.”

“Before you do, as I need to get back to work, I wanted to present my gift.” Gage doubled back toward the kitchen table, then handed an envelope over.

Erin took it, curious, and opened the card. It was a funny one, reading:Top Secret Birthday Essentials inside!It had a faux sort of government seal on it. She open the card and laughed. The inside read:Secret birthday money enclosed, use inappropriately as much as possible.

Along with a gift card to a shoe store. Smart of the man.

“Thank you so much, Gage, this card rocks.” Erin closed in and gave him a quick hug.

He looked pleased his gift had been taken well. “You’re very welcome. I figured a gift card to help you shop for shoesyoulike was a good bet.”

“You’re completely correct. If I never see high heels again, it’ll be too soon.”

“I bet. I’ll swing by after work to get some cake. I’ve got to scoot now, I’ve got an inspection I’m scheduled for.”

I didn’t have words to explain how much his support, his desire to be there this morning, meant to me. God, this man was a keeper. He knew how to properly take care of people. I escorted him out, giving Erin a chance to change, and because I wanted a quick conversation with him.

Gage didn’t say a word until we reached his truck. Then he turned, taking my hand in his. “How are you doing?”