“I think Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell are spinning in their graves,” I observe dryly when they finish.
“I thought that was a pretty good rendition.” Elliot bows theatrically to Mia and Kate, who are laughing and applauding with exaggerated gusto. They’re definitely all inebriated. Ana giggles, looking flushed and lovely.
“We’re going home,” I tell her.
Her face falls. “I told your mother we’d stay.”
“You did? Just now?”
“Yes. She brought down a change of clothes for us. I was looking forward to sleeping in your bedroom.”
“Darling, I was really hoping you’d stay.” It’s a plea from my mother, who stands in the doorway, Carrick behind her. “Kate and Elliot are, too. I like having all my chicks under one roof.” She reaches out and clasps my hand. “And we thought we’d lost you this week.”
Muttering an expletive beneath my breath, I keep my temper in check. My siblings seem to be completely oblivious to the drama that is unfolding in front of them. I expect this cluelessness from Elliot but not from Mia.
“Stay, son. Please.” My father’s eyes bore into me, but he appears genial enough. It’s not like he’s just told me that I’m a complete and utter disappointment.
Again.
respond to my mother. “Okay.” But it’s only because Ana’s giving me such an imploring look, and I know
“Thank you,” she whispers. I smile down at
his hand and drags him in front of
request to Ana. I’ve had enough of my family for one night. She nods in agreement and I knit
we love you. We only want the best for you. I am so happy with your news. And so happy that
a swift peck on the cheek.
says and gives her a swift hug. I tug Ana’s hand to leave as
do not
light, I close my bedroom door and pull Ana into my arms, seeking her warmth and trying to put Carrick’s
okay?” she murmurs.
mad at my dad. But that’s nothing new. He still
hugs me tighter. “Your father loves
now.” I kiss the top of her head and she tilts her face up, focusing on me, compassion and understanding shining in her eyes, and I know neither of us wants
my mother would have said, back in the day, if she’d caught me with a girl in my
a girl in
you going to do with her?” Ana’s answering smile is
when I was an adolescent.” But couldn’t. Because I couldn’t bear to be touched. “Unless you’re too
I’m exhausted.
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