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Everyone raised their glass and said, “To family.”
While the food was passed around, Emmett said, “A few years ago, it was just us. We were struggling to stay afloat with the farm and figuring out ways to support everyone with their side jobs and dreams. I never imagined just a few short years later, we’d be here.”
A hush fell over the table as Emmett talked. It was rare for him to add much during these family gatherings. “Dad would have been happy that we’re all together now. I hate to say this, but it took his death to bring us back here, where we belong, together on the farm.”
“To Monroe Farm,” Sebastian said, his glass held high once again.
“To the farm and our future,” Emmett agreed.
“Can we eat now?” Ember asked, her forehead wrinkled. “I’m starving.”
Sebastian leaned over to chuck her on the chin. “We can eat now.”
“Finally,” Ember said.
“Tell me about it,” Addy agreed.
My heart was overflowing with love and affection for Talon’s family, who’d so easily accepted everyone, including me.
“I hope to have even more people at my table next year,” Lori said with a brow raised at Cole.
His eyes widened as he held his hand over his chest. “But I’m not—”
Heath slapped his back. “All the brothers are taken. That means you’re next.”
“But I’m just a cousin. I’m not involved in whatever this is.” Cole waved a hand in our direction.
“There’s something in the water. I don’t see why you’d be immune from it,” Ireland said with a knowing grin.
“You are like a son to me, and I know Larry felt the same way. I’m just as invested in your future.”
Cole cleared his throat. “I’m not ready to date anyone seriously.”
“Is it possible you’ve already found her?” Lori asked quietly.
My attention turned from her to Cole, who was shifting in his chair. “I think I liked it better when I was the forgotten cousin.”
Emmett slapped him on the shoulder. “You’ve always been a part of the Monroe family.”
Cole shook his head, but I knew he liked that, too. I didn’t know much about his family, other than Talon’s father was his uncle, hence his last name was Monroe, too. I think he spent a lot of time here over the years, but I wasn’t sure why. I just assumed he loved the farm.
“I appreciate it. But I don’t need any matchmaking.” Then he dug into his food, probably so he didn’t have to say anything further on the topic.
Marley raised a brow. “The Monroe brothers have been falling hard.”
I leaned into Talon’s side. “Have you fallen hard?”
Talon rested his hand on my back. “Absolutely, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.”
My heart was full. I loved Talon Monroe and his family. It was only one perfect night, but it made me believe in the power of creating the future we wanted. If I could, I’d spend every Christmas here for the rest of my life. I hoped I’d be so lucky.
Chapter 23
Talon
The next few days, we woke up late, made love, showered together, and then cooked breakfast. It was easy and comfortable.
Holly tipped her coffee mug to her lips. “What are the plans for this morning?”
