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Her expression softens. “You scared me.”

“I know.”

She looks toward her brother. Then back at me. “You told him.”

“Yeah.”

“When?”

“Before the game.”

Her eyes fill. “Oh.”

I take her hand. “He wasn't thrilled.”

“No kidding.”

I smile. “I'm sorry I didn't tell him sooner.”

She shakes her head. “You told him. That's what matters.”

I glance toward Declan.

He's watching us.

So are her parents.

For a moment, the old instinct returns. The one that tells me to let go. Give everyone some space. Make this easier.

Then Delaney steps closer.

And I remember Christmas morning. The porch swing. Her cold nose. The way she told me she believed me.

I slide my arm around her waist. Right there. In front of everyone. She looks up.

I kiss her.

Not a quick kiss meant to pass for something innocent. Not one stolen behind a closed door.

A real kiss.

Her hand settles against my chest.

When I pull back, she's smiling.

“Hi,” she whispers.

I grin. “Hi.”

Behind us, Avery lets out a low whistle. “Well, damn.”

Delaney laughs.

I glance over.

Avery is grinning. “Girl, that was all for you.”

Delaney's cheeks turn pink.