We weave through the rooms filled with guests laughing, talking, holding plates of finger foods and glasses filled with punch. Jesse pulls the front door open to Cooter standing on the welcome mat wearing a sparkly shirt and a costume top hat with the words “Happy New Year” on it.
“Sorry for showin’ up late,” he says. “I had to stop by Donna’s. She didn’t feel up to a party, but I couldn’t neglect her on a holiday.”
“Donna Simms?” I ask Cooter.
He nods.
“You’re a good man, Cooter,” Jesse says.
“I even laid off the sauce tonight—on account of driving out to Donna’s and comin’ here. I didn’t want to make a fool of myself in front of all you good people.”
“You’re on the guest list, Cooter,” Jesse says. “We want you here.”
“Come in,” I say. “There’s food and drinks in the family room. And we’ll be having a toast before midnight.”
Cooter joins the crowd inside, mostly standing off to the side, but people bring him into conversations as the night rolls on.
“We need more punch,” I tell Jesse.
“I’ll get it,” he tells me. “And I’ll put the champagne and sparkling juice out for the toast while I’m at it.”
Rob overhears Jesse and volunteers to pitch in. Trevor trails behind them. I clear some plates and napkins and carry them toward the kitchen, stopping just shy of the doorway to silently witness the scene in front of me.
Trevor has casually slung an arm around Jesse’s shoulder. They’re all laughing. Jesse too. Trevor’s arm drops and he claps Jesse on the shoulder. Then they each grab some bottles and carry them toward the living room. I pass by them and toss the trash, smiling at Jesse as he passes by.
I smile to myself. The walls have come down for him. And for me.
I’m not the reason. Jesse earned his place. He’s been showing up—steady, loyal, kind—long before I ever arrived in Bordeaux. All I did was get close enough to see him for the man he really is. And somehow my acceptance opened a door.
Now everyone else finally sees him too—the real man—sometimes awkward, but always thoughtful, loyal and more complex than he appears at first blush.
I join Jesse. He loops his arm around me, handing me a flute that shimmers with tiny rising bubbles.
Duke is standing between Shannon and Jayme. He speaks loudly to get everyone’s attention.
“Friends!” Duke smiles. “What a year! Am I right?”
Everyone cheers with scattered shouts of “Yes!” and “You’ve got that right!”
Duke continues. “And this coming year’s going to be even better!”
Jesse tugs my side with the hand that’s resting on my hip, pulling me into his strength and warmth.
“I can’t wait to see what’s next. Maybe some more babies?” Duke laughs and a few nervous laughs layer with his. “Maybe an engagement?” He tips his glass in our direction and Jesse smiles.
It had occurred to me. If we’re still together well into this coming year, it’s possible we could be engaged by this time next year.
“Whatever it is,” Duke says, lifting his glass. “We’ll be together. To friends and family and a year full of blessings.”
Chief Gene adds, “To new beginnings, new friends, and to Jesse finally hosting a party that didn’t involve burnt hot dogs and discount drinks!”
“Hey,” Jesse says. “I resemble that remark!”
Everyone laughs. And some people shout, “To friends!”
“To Jesse!” Cooter shouts. And everyone joins in by shouting, “To Jesse!”
He’s not on the edges tonight. He’s at the center. And everyone loves him being there.
