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More than ready,I think, but my head moves as a reply, accepting his hand and allowing him to pull me to my feet. Together, we step out into the warm sun, ready to embrace whatever comes ahead.
“Let the fun begin,” his eyes alive with mischief and delight. And with that, we stride confidently into the next chapter of our story, hand in hand, hearts full of hope and curiosity.
Chapter Eleven
Percival
Thesunshinesupin the sky as I stand on the porch of Lancelot and Ariel’s home, the warm air feels humid and warm. I smile at the thought of another family dinner. I know… how weird of me. A couple of weeks ago, I just came here if was necessary, my life was too exciting, too busy… too empty. Shaking my head, I run a hand through my hair and push open the door, stepping into their cozy abode.
“Finally! The guest of honor decides to show up,” Lance teases with a grin as he catches sight of me, his hands on his hips. I chuckle and give him a brotherly punch on the shoulder.
“Can’t start without the life of the party now, can we?” I retort, soaking in the lively atmosphere that fills their home.
Ariel appears from the kitchen, her purple hair bouncing as she rushes over to give me a hug. “You’re here! Everything’s ready, I made some appetizers, and your brother is grilling. Come to the patio!” She exclaims, her free-spirited aura brushing off on me as she leads me outside.
The table is laden with delicious food, each dish more mouthwatering than the last. The aroma of hot wings mingles with that of garlic and rosemary mashed potatoes, spinach artichoke dip, stuffed mushrooms, and many more, making my stomach growl in anticipation. Laughter and conversation fill the room as everyone finds their seats around the table.
Arthur, my oldest nephew, walks out the patio, “What’s upwhatafuckers? What the fuck, nicks? What the fuck, folks?”
My chest bubbles with laugher. “What is this about?”
Lancelot makes a face before replying. “Ariel forgot our son is like a parrot. She was listening to Marc Maron’s podcast while picking him up from daycare.”
“Alright, everyone!” Ariel claps her hands together, drawing our attention. “The appetizers are getting cold, let’s dig in!”
We all reach for our plates, eager to indulge in the feast before us. Ariel is the best cook I know. As I take a bite of the succulent chicken, I notice how much warmth and love there is in this room. My family gathered, engaging in animated discussions about everything from the latest Hollywood gossip to the state of the world.
“Percy,” Lance nudges me with a sly grin. “You’ve been keeping yourself busy lately, huh? Spill the beans, bro.”
I chuckle, a mischievous glint in my eye. “Well, you know me. Always on the lookout for new adventures,” I reply, taking a sip of my wine.
“Speaking of adventures,” Ariel chimes in, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. “We’ve all heard about this beautiful woman you’re so keen on showing how to surf the other day at the beach. Care to share more?”
I let out a sigh, knowing there was no escaping their prying questions. But as I glance around the table, seeing the genuine interest and support from each person here, I’m grateful for these moments.
“Alright, alright,” I concede, leaning back in my chair. “Her name is Spencer, and she saved my life. That’s all I’m saying for now. You’ll just have to wait and see how it all unfolds.”
“Ooh, a mystery!” Ariel coos, clapping her hands together. “I love it! Just promise me one thing. If things get serious, make sure you introduce her to us. We want to meet the woman who can tame the infamous Percival Hills!”
Laughter erupts around the table as I roll my eyes, grinning despite myself.
“Deal,” I agree, raising my glass. “To family, friends, and new beginnings.”
“Cheers!” everyone choruses, clinking their glasses together in a symphony of celebration.
As I take another bite of the succulent wings, my eyes drift to the door where Adrik and Jordania enter, their twin girls in tow.
“Look who finally decided to show up!” Lancelot exclaims, raising his glass in welcome. “The prodigal son returns.”
When I was at the hospital, my brother told me Adrik was spending some time overseas, commissioned by the Navy, where he is a high-ranking officer.
“Getting out of the house with the girls was a challenge,” Adrik grumbles. His usually stoic expression softening as he catches sight of the feast laid out before us. “But we made it.”
“Pull up some chairs!” Ariel encourages, clapping her hands together excitedly as she makes room at the table for our new arrivals.
Jordania, a stunning woman with dark hair cascading down her shoulders, shakes her head and laughs as she chases after her twin daughters, who made a beeline for the dessert table.
“Slow down there, girls,” she calls out, scooping the little girl into her arms. “Save some room for dinner!”
