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“That Maia is part of our family,” Zoey says with full confidence.
“Of course she is,” Rhett says as he lays his board down on the sand and towels off. “She’s survived this long with us; she makes the cut.”
“I agree.” Ryan grins. He looks so much like Rhett, it’s crazy.
My cheeks are burning hot, and I hope to God no one notices.
“How’s it going, kids?” Rhett’s dad walks up next to him with his mom on his arm. She has a sundress on and a large wide-brimmed hat, with a book under her free arm. His father looks casual in shorts, a T-shirt, and ball cap. It’s the most casual I’ve seen the two of them since arriving. Must be all the wedding stress that’s finally gone.
“We were just saying how Maia’s part of the family now,” Zoey says, and I want to elbow her in the side. She’s definitely the loudest of the bunch and says whatever comes to mind.
“She sure is,” Rhett’s mom says as she watches her husband hang their towels on their beach chairs. Rhett brought them with us earlier since he knew they were coming and made sure to set them up. “You’re always welcome here, Maia. Anytime, sweetie.”
“Thank you.” I smile sheepishly. “I appreciate it.”
“I wish you two could stay a bit longer,” Rhett’s dad says, and I’m quite surprised. He hasn’t said much, but hearing him say that warms my insides.
“Me too,” Emily sulks more.
“Let’s have a big celebration dinner tomorrow night before you two leave the following morning,” Rhett’s mom says. “I’ll get some cocktail shrimp, maybe some lobsters.”
“Damn, I never get it this good when I leave,” Ryan says.
“Me neither, bro. It’s because of Maia,” Rhett teases, and we all laugh.
“You only benefit, though, right?”
“Touché, touché, Mi.”
“I’m so happy to have had all my children together again this past week. We miss you so much, Rhett,” his mom says.
“Yeah, butthead.” Ryan smacks the back of Rhett’s head lightly. “We miss you, dumbass.”
“Nah, we don’t really,” Zoey chimes in, and I can’t help but chuckle. She is pretty funny.
“Zoey. Don’t say things like that. I love all my children equally and miss them the same amount. I know sometimes it might seem like I’m too preoccupied, but I really am here for any of you if you need it. You too, Maia.”
Rhett stands. “Alright, this shit is getting too deep. I’m going back in the water. Maia, want to practice?”
“I think I’ll lie here for a bit longer,” I say.
“Maia knows what’s up,” Zoey says. “She wants to hang out with the cool people.”
“I taught you how to be cool, Zoey. Remember that. Anyway that means butthead two point oh is up.” Rhett whacks Ryan’s head in the same manner as he did to his.
He grabs his board and takes off running as Ryan does the same, chasing him with his board dragging behind him.
We all laugh.
It feels amazing to be surrounded by people who have so much love for each other. To feel like you belong somewhere. To feel safe, secure, protected. Like someone always has your back.
I take in as much as I can and hold it deep inside so that when we leave, I’ll remember and cherish this time forever.
Chapter 22
Rhett
On the morning of our departure, my family lines up on the sidewalk for hugs goodbye. Even Kate, Brad, and Melissa stopped by to see us off. Chuck is still on his honeymoon in the Bahamas.
