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Eric’s eyebrows furrowed, clearly trying to process everything. “You really thought it would be that bad?”
Zoey nodded, her gaze steady. “Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.”
Liam rubbed her back reassuringly, “We didn’t want to take any chances.”
“But now that you’re here,” Bodhi said, “and we’ve cleared the air, at least somewhat, we can focus on creating positive memories. Starting with tonight’s dinner.”
In my typical straightforward manner, I added, “And look, now you can save us from my cooking attempts, so it’s a win-win for everyone.”
Eric chuckled, the light atmosphere slowly returning. “Mason is really good at choosing restaurants, though.”
“I once saw him burn water,” Liam teased.
“Hey, I bring other skills to the table,” I shot back with mock indignation, flexing my muscles in jest.
“Yeah, like carrying all the heavy groceries,” Bodhi added with a smirk.
Zoey laughed. “All right, all right. Let’s all just go get dressed for the day. We have a feast to prepare, and trust me, Eric, you’re going to want to keep Mason out of the kitchen.”
I huffed but wore a playful grin. “Fine, but I’m in charge of the playlist then.”
The group dispersed, with light banter filling the space once clouded by tension.
CHAPTER21
Liam
The kitchen was filled with the inviting scents of garlic, rosemary, and the rich undercurrent of roasting turkey. The heart of the home was alive with activity, buzzing with conversations, and the underpinning of a soft holiday playlist.
Bodhi naturally took his place at the kitchen island, expertly measuring ingredients for a cocktail. The clink of ice and the rattle of the cocktail shaker became a familiar rhythm, punctuating our banter.
“Anyone fancy a spiced cranberry mojito?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.
“That sounds exotic, just like our relationship,” Zoey teased, passing by him with a bowl of fresh vegetables for the salad.
Eric chuckled at her comment. “Gotta admit, I’m not totally comfortable with this yet, but that was a good one.” His tone had softened considerably since his initial reaction, a testament to the bond we all shared. “And Bodhi, after everything I learned today, you better make mine a double.”
Bodhi laughed. “Coming right up.”
“I’ll pass on the drink for now.” Mason held up a wooden spoon dripping with... something. He frowned at it. “Hey, Liam, can you taste this and tell me if it’s okay?”
I walked over, trying to hide my smirk. “Mason, that’s basically just raw egg.”
He sighed, his chiseled face a picture of exasperation. “Why do you guys even let me near the kitchen?”
“Comic relief?” I offered with a shrug, earning a playful punch in the arm.
Zoey, her face flushed from the heat of the oven, said, “We need someone to keep things... interesting.”
Mason gave her a playful swat on the ass, and she shrieked, grabbing a kitchen towel and swatting him back.
Eric watched the exchange with an amused smile. “Never thought I’d see the day where Mason, of all people, would be the ‘interesting’ one in the kitchen.” He leaned against the counter, his tall frame relaxed, and there was a twinkle in his eye that spoke of old memories. “Remember the camping trip where he almost burned down the tent trying to make toast?”
Mason groaned. “Not the toast story again!”
Bodhi handed Eric a drink, the ruby liquid sparkling in the glass. “It’s a classic. We’re obligated to bring it up at least once a year.”
Eric took a sip, his eyes appreciative. “You’ve outdone yourself, Bodhi.”
