“What?” I laughed. When I saw her expression, I realized she was serious. “Since when?”
“Since always. But especially since he moved back and started working at the clinic. He’s a good man. He’ll be a good husband and father.”
I tilted my head to the side. I had no idea she’d given it so much thought. Though I guess it shouldn’t have surprised me. My mom was a romantic at heart.
“I wouldn’t tell Liam that.”
She rolled her eyes. “Your brother needs to pull his head out of his ass. He’s so hell-bent on protecting you that he doesn’t see the strong, independent, beautiful woman you’ve become. Hopefully he will now.”
“Thanks, Mom.” I hugged her. “And thanks for forcing Liam and me to talk.”
“I know you weren’t happy about it, but I couldn’t stand seeing my babies fight.”
“I know.” My shoulders deflated. I was only just realizing the full impact of my choices on my family, especially my brother. “I’m sorry.”
“No need to apologize. You both did what you thought was right.” She smoothed a hand down my back.
I nodded. “I think this past month has been one of the hardest in my life. But also, one of the best.”
“You’re a fighter, Wren. Always have been.” She leaned in and whispered, “You’re one of the strongest people I know.”
“Thanks, Mom.” I appreciated her words. She’d always been there with her words, building me up. Helping me when I was at my lowest. “You’re the best.”
“I love you, Wren. And I’m so happy for you.”
“I love you too.” I smiled. “Is River upstairs?”
She nodded. I went off to find him, but not before she called, “Oh, and Wren?”
“Yeah?” I paused, hand poised on the banister.
“Why don’t we plan for River to stay here next weekend? Give you and Bennett some alone time.”
“Thanks. That would be nice.”
“Oh, it’s purely selfish on my part.” She flashed me a wicked grin. “I’d love some more grandbabies.”
I shook my head with a laugh. Who knew my mom could be so shameless?
I continued up the stairs but paused when I reached the landing. Had she known about Bennett and me all along? Was that why she’d never asked what I was doing when I’d ask if River could spend the night?
I laughed and continued on. It wouldn’t have surprised me.
River and my dad were playing a board game. “Hey, kiddo. You ready?”
“Sure,” he muttered and started helping clean up, while my dad headed down the hall.
“Before we go, there’s something I need to talk to you about. How would you feel about Bennett moving back in with us?”
He stilled. “Seriously?”
“Yes, but he’d be moving back in as my boyfriend. He’d be staying in my room. Are you okay with that?”
“Are you kidding?” He stared at me, excitement coursing through him. “Heck yes!” His face lit up with a smile, and he whooped and danced all the way down the stairs and out the front door.
My parents laughed, waving goodbye from the front porch as River and I climbed into the car. River peppered me with questions the entire ride home.
“Are you getting married?”
