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“No, but if you didn’t, I would have kissed you. Before you get embarrassed, let’s go eat.” He takes my hand and leads me to the restaurant.
My dad doesn’t hide his scowl when we walk in hand in hand, but my mom whispers something in his ear, which makes him relax. Throughout the meal, Bryce finds a way to touch me as much as possible. The small gestures leave a trail of heat where his fingers touch.
Once dinner is finally over, our parents decide to go to the lounge, and Nate, Bryce, and I head to the condo. I leave them to pick out a movie and call Quinn.
“Merry Christmas, bitch,” she greets me.
“Back at ya, babe. How was your day?”
“You know, the norm. Ate too much, took a nap, listened to my dad yell at the football games. Although, I got a pair of kick ass boots. What about you?”
“It’s been interesting, to say the least.” I tell her about everything that has happened since waking up this morning. She’s a little too quiet when I finish. “Your silence is killing me.”
“I’m pissed! Thrilled to death for you but pissed for me. Who would have thought our first college bowl game experience, you’d have a boyfriend? Who’s gonna be my wingman? And let’s not forget we’re in MIAMI!”
“It’s a little early to say I have a boyfriend.”
“Don’t be an idiot. If what you’re telling me is true, which I know it is, Bryce has staked claim. No going back. Open your eyes and your ears.”
“I’m giving him a chance but also being cautious.”
“Whatever you say, but I know better. Can you still go out on New Year’s Eve?”
“Of course.”
We talk for a few more minutes about mindless things then confirm our plans to meet in Miami. Once we’re off the phone, I change into my pajamas and grab the small gift boxes in my bag.
Nate and Bryce have a fire going and a football game on TV when I join them. The lights are dim, but the tree in the corner illuminates the room beautifully.
“Guys, I have something for you. It’s nothing big, but when I saw these in one of the village shops, I thought of y’all.” I hand them each a box.
Neither of them speaks when they open them but look at me surprised. “I know it’s cheesy, but when I saw them, I thought we could finish the inscription when you both graduate from OCS next year.”
Both look at the keychains and turn them over. One side has the Navy Seal, and the other has their name. I had the shop do a rush order but left enough room for the date to be added.
My brother gets to me first and lifts me up, hugging me tightly. “It’s awesome, Devon. Thank you.” He kisses my temple, setting me down.
Before I can step back, Bryce pushes him aside and lifts me again but gently. He buries his head into my neck and nuzzles me softly. “It’s perfect, just like you.” He leans back and stares into my eyes then, without warning, closes his mouth over mine in a searing kiss. I forget we aren’t alone and allow him to claim my lips. W
e don’t stop until Nate starts clearing his throat behind us then shoves Bryce.
“Jesus, stop it! I told you I was supportive, but don’t make me regret it. Put her the fuck down.”
Bryce grins against my lips and lowers me, pecking me one more time.
“Okay.” I find my voice. “What are we watching?”
“Football,” they both answer.
“What happened to a movie?”
“Football is better,” Nate answers, propping himself on the couch cushion.
“Okay, I’ll read.” I settle in the middle and open my iPad. It isn’t long before the huge dinner paired with wine catches up to me and I doze off. Bryce pulls me toward him so my head is in his lap, and he strokes my hair lightly. Nate gives him shit, but he doesn’t stop. I stir slightly when my parents come in but don’t wake up.
When Bryce lifts me off the couch, I finally awaken. “No, I want to sleep next to the Christmas tree.”
“On the couch, babe?”
