Page 153 of Take My Name

Afterward, we go outside and feed the chickens.

Alltwelveof them.

For someone who hated them at the beginning of summer, she was quick to ask if she could name them. And because she’s a bookworm at heart, gave all six chicks Disney princess names.

Now I’m walking around shouting atCinderellaandBelleto stop fighting whileAuroraandTianachase afterArielandJasmine.

Going from six to twelve is a fucking shitshow.

But I wouldn’t have it any other way.

On the weekends, I’ve been teaching Maisie how to cook. It’s slow going, but she’s trying. Minus the Salisbury steak incident where she managed to burn it on the outside while the inside was still rare.

In between all the chaos, I’ve been planning Silas’s bachelor party since I’m his best man and he’s getting married soon. Aundrea gave strict instructions on what he was allowed or not allowed to do, so we’re basically left with going to a gay bar so “women won’t hit on him.”

But I wouldn’t be surprised if she shows up there just to make sure.

Most likely, we’ll end up drunk and taking turns on the mechanical bull.

“Sweetheart? Where’re you?” I walk into a quiet and dark house. Her car’s in the driveway, so she must be downstairs reading. We’re going away this weekend, so hopefully she started packing before getting lost in her book.

But when I flick on the lights, people jump out from behind the furniture and scream, “Happy birthday!”

The living room spills out with family and friends. But my eyes scan the area for her.

When she finally emerges with the biggest smile on her face, I playfully shake my head. “Oh hell, you did not.”

She wraps her arms around my neck and pulls me in for a kiss. “Were you surprised?”

“Uh, yeah. How in the world did you plan this without me knowin’?”

“I’m very sneaky.” She waggles her brows. “And had lots of help.”

I walk around with Maisie and thank at least fifty people and my siblings for coming and cramming into my house. My mom gives me a knowing look like she’s also behind this little surprise and then Aunt JoJo congratulates me on joining the dirty-thirties club.

I’m shocked when I see Landen and Ellie. Even after she lost and regained her memory, they fell in love and are now engaged. With how obsessed he is with her, I wouldn’t be surprised if they get married right away.

After we sent in our letters about Angela to the parole board, we later found out they approved her anyway.

It was a major blow, but Landen’s been handling it well given the circumstances.

“I can’t believe y’all made the drive up here.” I pull him in for a hug. It’s been a while since we’ve seen each other. “I get to finally meet the woman who’s had a hold on you for the past four-plus years.”

“That so?” Ellie gloats and smirks at Landen. “Tell me more.”

We all laugh.

I like her already.

Once I introduce her to Maisie, we chat for a few minutes before continuing to give Bodie and Colt shit for keeping a secret from me.

“Happy birthday, man!” Silas smacks my back, hugging me hard.

“Thanks, I’m glad you came.” I look around for his other half, who never lets him out of her sight. “Where’s Aundrea?”

He scratches his cheek and averts his gaze. “She had plans tonight. But she sends her best wishes.”

He’s lying.