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“Really.”
Luna glares at me. I smile back at her.
“Luna never tells me anything. How lovely you two are together.” She turns to Luna and says, “He’s very cute. I like the glasses,” as if I can’t hear her.
Luna groans. “Mom. Stop.”
Lori still hasn’t let go of my hand.
Now I’m regretting my words because I’m stuck with my arm outstretched and Lori McNeill stroking my hand tenderly, like she’s afraid if she lets go I’ll disappear.
“What? You never have a boyfriend. I’m just excited. How did you meet?”
“At a Racketeers game. Alexsei Ryan is my roommate.” I leave it at that.
The door jingles as Brady comes back in for another box. Lori finally lets go of my hand, which is a massive relief.
I know Luna. She’s about to brush her mother off with an excuse about work.
Lori seems to sense that, too. “I know you’re busy—
“I am,” Luna interrupts her.
Her mother is undeterred. “But I just wanted to let you know how proud your father and I are of you. It’s because of you the bakery is thriving.”
Luna sighs, her shoulders drooping. It’s a nice thing to say, but I understand the context behind it. “Thanks, Mom.”
“You’ve always been so capable, so independent.” She smiles at me. “She practically raised herself. She was just so easy.”
“Well, I didn’t really have a choice, did I?” Luna says, brightly.
Her smile doesn’t reach her eyes.
“I know and I’m sorry.” Lori tries to pet Luna’s arm, but Luna shifts away. “I just wanted to come here today to let you know that we’re just as proud of your accomplishments as we are your brother’s.”
“I appreciate that.”
Lori sighs. “Luna. We made mistakes. We were juggling Crew’s schedule, and you were always so fine that we let that be our guide. Parents make mistakes and time flies by and, well, we’re sorry if you ever felt left behind.”
There are tears in her mother’s eyes.
Luna crumples a little at the sight of them. “Mom. It’s fine. I had Grandma and Grandpa as a bonus, and I always knew you loved me. I’m good. I turned out okay.”
I hide my face with my coffee mug so I don’t interrupt when it’s none of my damn business.
“You turned out better than okay.”
My mouth opens and I add, before contemplating whether it’s wise or not, “She turned out fucking amazing.”
“Cam!”
But she looks pleased.
Lori doesn’t look offended by my swearing. She smiles at me. “She did. And I like that you want to champion my daughter. She’s very special.”
I nod, firmly. “She is.”
She’s my person. Just like Alexsei is my person. After last night, and after hearing this conversation, I know it deep down in the pit of my gut.
