Page 403 of Saving Forever with the Hockey Captain

"My mother always is."

"And yours taught mine to do it."

I grin. "Apparently punctuality is contagious."

I set the drill on the deck rail and together we walk around the cabin toward the front yard as another familiar SUV turns into the drive. Home has a funny way of getting noisier every year.

Duke grabs his tennis ball and trots after us while Willow never strays more than a step from Annette's side.

***

By the time we round the corner, my parents are already climbing out of Dad's truck. Mom barely has time to straighten her sweater before Duke reaches her, tail wagging hard enough to shake his entire back end.

"There you are, handsome," she laughs, rubbing both ears. "I see you haven't forgotten me."

"He doesn't forget anyone who slips him treats," Dad says.

"I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Keep telling yourself that."

An SUV pulls in. Coach climbs out first, followed by Becca, who walks straight over to Annette and wraps her in a careful hug.

"How are you feeling?"

"Good."

"No morning sickness?"

"Finally gone."

"Good." Becca smiles. "Now I can spoil you properly."

Within minutes, the quiet morning disappears beneath easy conversation, laughter, and the familiar rhythm that has somehow become our family.

***

Annette’s parents arrive bearing, as usual, loads of packages and smiles. Colby and Sadie arrive next with Jillie bursting from the back seat before the engine is even off.

"Uncle Jamie!"

She launches herself at me. I barely have time to catch her before she's wrapping both arms around my neck.

"Easy there," I laugh.

"I'm not little anymore."

"So, I've noticed."

She grins. "I helped Mom make cinnamon rolls."

"I had a feeling you might."

"I only ate one."

Sadie raises an eyebrow. "Two," Jillie admits.

"That's closer."