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“I’ve been talking with them since I found out what Lakebend was planning. We’re signing with them.”
“Oh. Cool. And, um, who is that? I’ve never heard of them.”
“Exactly. They’re a startup. More importantly, they’re thrilled to have me on board, and I’m thrilled they’re giving me full control over my career and my music. Win. Win.”
She pulls us to a stop just before the door, and her gaze softens as it rests on my face.
“One more thing.”
“Yeah?”
“Check your phone.”
Confused, I pull it out and stare at the blank screen.
“I meant to turn it on,” she says in a dry tone.
“I know. It’s just…”
“Do it, Val.”
I suck in a deep breath and obey, bracing for the barrage of notifications. Yep, saw that coming. So many flashing banners, but before I can sort through the messages, Larinda tugs it from my hand.
She scrolls through them, snorts a laugh, and hands it back.
“I knew it,” she says.
“Knew what?”
“That one. Look.”
I glance down at the screen. An unknown number? What’s she talking about?
Unknown: Val, this is Randall and Ruby Scott.
Oh. Well. Damn.
We just wanted to say thank you. We heard the news and are ecstatic (also relieved) to learn our precious girl chose you over that used tissue of a man, Jarvis. Take care of our daughter and welcome to the family, son. What’s your favorite meat? We’re grillin’ as soon as you two get your rear ends back in Texas. Also, what’s your shirt size? We need a sixth for the Scott Family team at this year’s second annual Block of Blocks Block Party. The grand prize is a trip to the indoor waterpark at Candle Ridge Casino and Ruby already has her heart set on it. Oh, and don’t tell Larinda I sent this. She doesn’t like when we meddle.
I glance up, having no clue what to say as my girlfriend grins and crosses her arms.
“You… How did you know your dad messaged me?”
“Because I know my dad. They absolutely love you. I knew the second they learned the truth, they’d reach out to welcome you into the family.”
“I… what? What do you mean they love me?”
She grunts and pulls out her phone. After scrolling for a second, she hands me a text stream of what looks like a group chat. An old one, based on the date.
Mom: It was so great seeing you for brunch, sweetie. We always love spending time with you. Please don’t take this the wrong way but are you ABSOLUTELY sure about Jarvis? I mean, maybe just think about it a little more?
Dad: That idiot is a drop of melted wax.
Mom: Randall!
Dad: What? It’s true. We all know it.
Mom: Yes, but if he’s our daughter’s beloved, then we will belove him.
