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“They’re a family. They’re going to protect their own,” Nova says, smiling.
I drag her against my side, tucking her under my arm as the crew of us heads toward our vehicles in the dark.
So will I.
EPILOGUE
NOVA
“Everything better be vegan this time,” I mutter, stirring the pot on the stove.
My feet ache from breaking in new shoes for tonight, and I chewed my lipstick off my mouth hours ago.
Clay and I are hosting dinner at our new house to celebrate Emily’s first birthday.
Harlan and Mari had a party for her, but this is for family.
I want tonight to be perfect. I still have memories of Mari’s bachelorette party when I messed up the cupcakes.
“We made it ourselves,” Chloe points out, picking up plates to set the table. Halfway across her kitchen, she pauses, eyes widening. “Except…”
“What?!” My heart leaps into my throat.
Her eyes brighten. “Kidding. Everything’s perfect. Besides, Mar’s been mainlining dairy since she had Emily. Bodies are weird.”
The front door opens, and there are Clay and Jay, carrying alcohol. “Got the wine.”
“I love you,” I exhale.
“Both of us?” Jay asks, cocking his head.
“If that bag is full of vintage alcohol, then yes.”
Clay sets his bag on the counter and comes up behind me.
“Can we help?” Jay offers.
Chloe finishes washing her hands and dries them before she lifts a bottle from the bag, groaning. “Open. Pour.” She hands it to Jay, who salutes.
“It smells really good in here,” Jay says as he gets to work.
“You’re not just saying that?”
“Nah. I always wanted…”
The guys look at each other.
“Vegan pumpkin risotto,” I supply.
“Yeah, that.”
When Harlan and Mari come over, they’re already in the middle of a conversation, Emily’s carrier in Harlan’s arms.
“She hates this outfit,” Mari frets.
“She’ll be fine,” Harlan insists. “You’re a great mom, Mar, and Emily knows it.” He turns a smile on us. “Nova, Clay, thank you for having us.”
Clay serves drinks as Chloe and I finish preparing the meal. Harlan sets Emily’s carrier next to the couch.
