I glance at Luc, unsure what to say. I don’t know the rules for this kind of thing. And I don’t know if I can explain cultural appropriation in a way Emmett would understand.
But Luc doesn’t hesitate. “Sure,jefe,we can do it together next year.”
Emmett—no, all of my siblings—stare at Luc like he just invented flying cars and he’s given them each a free one.
I freakin’ love this man.
I cover his knee and give it a squeeze. When he aims those dimples my way, a little flutter dances in my middle.
My three siblings exchange glances. Knowing glances, I realize. Harry clears his throat. “So y’all are getting married in less than two weeks.” It isn’t a question. This is something we hammered out at Nezzie’s. A small ceremony—Luc’s family, my family, and a few friends—at his parents’ house. December 21st. The Saturday before Christmas.
Last month I had no idea how we’d get through the holidays. Well, this is how. With a wedding. New traditions. And The Valencias.
I’ve never felt so blessed.
“Yep,” I say. “In less than two weeks.”
Harry raises a brow at me. I can tell he’s ready to ask for something. Argue for something if he has to.
“We’ve discussed it,” he says nodding to Mattie and Emmett in turn, “and we think Luc should start living here now.”
They’ve discussed it?When?!
Luc coughs next to me. A quick glance tells me he’s equally surprised—and amused.
“Like tonight,” Harry adds.
“Well, we haven’t—” I start, but I don’t get very far.
“We like it when Luc’s here,” Mattie says.
“Yeah,” Emmett echoes.
“Hey guys, I like being here too,” Luc says. “And I’m happy to hear you’re ready for me to move in. But let me and your sister talk it out first, okay?”
“Sure,” Harry concedes. Mattie and Emmett seem to follow his cue.
Once again, when they would argue with me, one word from Luc, and it’s done. I could get used to this.
I can’t help my smile. Iwillget used to this.
“Okay. Now that that’s settled, you three get upstairs. It’s late.”
And to my surprise, they go. I give them a minute to get upstairs, fight over who gets the bathroom first, and then I go up to make sure everyone’s good for the night. Emmett lets me hug and kiss him as usual. But tonight, the twins surprise me.
“I’m so excited for you,” Mattie whispers, hugging me in her doorway. It’s really sweet.
When I go to tell Harry goodnight, he gets up from his unmade bed and comes to put his hands on my shoulders. God, he’s getting so big. We’re no longer eye-level. I have to look up at him, and when I do his face is so serious. So grown up.
“I’m really glad it’s Luc.”
I smile. “Yeah. Me too.”
When he kisses my cheek, my throat goes tight. “Where are those sunglasses when you need them?” I say, and he laughs.
“‘Night, Millie.”
Clarence follows me downstairs where Luc waits on the sectional. He looks relaxed and perfect and beautiful. I’m a nervous wreck.
