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Eddie nods. “Sure do. Little buddy would just run around in the mornings when he woke up, flapping his little boy parts without a care in the world.”
Laughter erupts around the table, and I can't help but join in. The image of a young Wayne causing chaos and laughter warms my heart. It's a glimpse into his past, a revelation that he has always had an adventurous spirit.
Wayne squeezes my thigh. “Wait. So, you’re laughing at me too?”
“Not at you. With you, babe. There’s a difference,” I assure him with a smile.
He turns to his mother and pretends to scowl. "You waited until this morning to share that story, huh?" he teases. “And you just had to throw the flapping little boy part in there, big brother?” he asks Eddie, raising an eyebrow playfully.
“Had to,” Eddie expels with another fit of laughter.
“Oh, but I have more….” Louise continues to regale us with stories of Eddie and Wayne's childhood. We revel in anecdotes, inside jokes, and a sense of belonging, as our bond as a family grows stronger with each passing moment.
Time seems to slip away unnoticed as the morning flies by, and our laughter fades into contented smiles.
Wayne breaks the comfortable silence, his gaze intense as he looks at each of us. "You know what I love about moments like these? Just being together, enjoying each other's company without the pressures of the outside world," Wayne reflects, hisvoice tinged with sincerity. "I love football season, but when it’s over, and we have some space to just be us, those are the best times."
After our discussion this morning, his sentiment of leaving the pressures of the outside world behind resonates.
Louise's smile is soft and brimming with warmth. Her every movement and action shows that she adores her sons and cherishes moments like this. "That's exactly why I wanted this brunch today," Louise explains. "To spend some quality time with all of you before the wedding chaos takes over."
“I remember when I got married. That was really a chaotic time,” Eddie says absentmindedly as if remembering something far and distant and untouchable. His mind suddenly drifts miles away as he stoically stares at the kitchen wall.
“It was very chaotic, but I wouldn’t change a thing. You had a beautiful wedding and an even more beautiful bride. I remember every detail,” Louise leans across the table and touches his hand, offering her sympathy.
Marjorie reaches out and places her arm around Eddie, offering a quick, comforting hug. "That’s why in times like these it's important to take a moment to refocus on what truly matters—family. Remember, you are loved," she says, her voice filled with genuine affection, a testament to the depth of her bond with her best friend’s sons.
Cocooned by the support of his mother and godmother, Eddie nods. "There's something I need to tell you." His voice carries a tremor of vulnerability that catches me off guard.
All eyes turn to him, concern etched on our faces, waiting with bated breath for him to continue. His gaze flickers to me, adding a layer of unease to the room. What could he possibly have to say that gives him such pause? And why does he keepglancing in my direction, as if his statement will directly involve me?
"I'm in love," he blurts out, the words tumbling out in a rush, revealing the vulnerability and courage it took to express his feelings.
A surge of relief washes over me, happy for Eddie that he has found someone to love. He could have announced a health scare or any other bad news. But being in love is a reason to celebrate. However, as the weight of his words settles, questions start swirling in my mind.
Is Eddie in love with Jasmine? Who am I kidding? Of course, he's talking about Jasmine.
Wayne's eyes widen in surprise, mirroring the shock I feel. He knows of Jasmine’s interest in Eddie and Jeremiah. However, neither of us knows who she’s serious about or if she’s serious about anyone.
Marjorie and Louise exchange a worried glance, silently communicating their concerns. Louise's voice is gentle but firm as she seeks clarification. "What do you mean, Eddie? Who are you in love with?"
Eddie swallows hard, his gaze never leaving mine, his vulnerability laid bare for all to see. "I mean, I'm in love with Leslie's sister, Jasmine. I have romantic feelings for her," he clarifies, his voice trembling with raw honesty. "That’s why I texted her and asked her to come over this morning to tell her how I feel about her. She should be here soon. I wanted to tell you all first because you've been there for me when I was going through it after losing Alexandria. That was the hardest time of my life. I never thought I would date again, much less fall in love with another woman."
The room falls silent, the weight of Eddie's revelation hanging in the air. My heart sinks deeper into my chest as realization dawns upon me. He's going to tell her here, in front of everyone. This isn't going to go well.
Louise's voice breaks the silence, her words filled with acceptance. "That's wonderful, son. I'm happy for you, truly. Jasmine is a good match for you, someone who can challenge you in the best ways," she says, her eyes shining with motherly love.
Marjorie nods, her laughter mixed with understanding. "I couldn't agree more. Jasmine's sassy demeanor will keep you grounded, Eddie. She takes no nonsense, but I believe she'll truly understand and support you," she adds, her voice tinged with partiality.
As the conversation unfolds, my heart sinks deeper. Doubts gnaw at me. A flicker of worry tugs at my soul. I've seen no sign of Jasmine reciprocating Eddie's feelings. She has only mentioned spending time with him casually, never speaking of love. What has transpired between them to make Eddie feel this way? Are his feelings misplaced, or is there more to their relationship than I know?
My mind races with questions, and the intensity of the situation becomes palpable. I want to tell him that Jasmine doesn't feel the same, but who am I to interfere? Perhaps she's hiding her true emotions behind a façade of being a "city girl," living free and loose. I bite my lip, torn between my loyalty to Eddie and my desire for honesty.
With each passing moment, it feels like Eddie's revelation will set in motion a series of events that will challenge us all, putting our bonds to the test and unraveling the beautiful familydynamic we've created. The air becomes heavy with anticipation and uncertainty.
As Eddie's confession hangs in the air, my eyes dart toward the kitchen entrance, and to my surprise, Jasmine stands there. Apprehension mingles on her face, her arrival coinciding with Eddie's heartfelt revelation.
Jasmine's eyes are wide. Her gaze flickers between Eddie and me, her expression a mix of surprise and something I can't quite decipher. Louise notices Jasmine's presence and offers her a warm smile, beckoning her to join us at the table.
