Page 98 of Enchanting the CEO

"I’m on that slope, and I'm very happy," Grandfather declared.

Then he focused on Diane, who was staring with her mouth open at everyone. Maybe I should have given her a 101 on how things worked in our family, but it didn't occur to me.

“Jeannie’s usually on her best behavior when someone new joins the family. I don’t know what got into her today,” Grandfather said, and Diane stiffened.

"Grandfather! Way to put her on the spot." I should have warned her that no one had a filter.

And yet he was right. Diane felt like a member of the family, like she'd always been here, part of the group.

Part of me.

The front door opened, and Zoey and Colton came in. Then Maddox, Nick, and Leo. Helen had already left town, although my brothers said she’d never just pop up for a birthday party.

"Ah, everyone's here except Penny, Spencer, and Ben," Maddox declared.

They all congratulated Grandfather and then quickly turned to Diane. I swear to God, it was almost comical. Maddox, Leo, and Nick were grinning but also theatrically each running a finger over their necks in a throat-cutting motion.

Colton shook her hand and said, "Diane, don't pay attention to these losers." He pointed at our half brothers. "They like you but are afraid of the fact that Grandmother had yet another successful matchmaking outcome. And what that means for them now."

Maddox stared at Colton. "Yeah, exactly what he said. Even I couldn't explain it that well."

"You have a gift, man," Nick said.

Leo ran a hand through his hair. "You know, him voicing it doesn't make this less dangerous."

Diane grinned. "Well, I think your grandmother is on to something."

Maddox turned to me. "Gabe, you didn't explain to Diane how things work in the family?"

"No," I admitted. "Didn't think it was necessary."

Nick groaned. "We're toast anyway, Maddox."

"I'm glad everyone is so amused," Grandmother huffed.

The door opened again. "Hello?" called a voice we didn't know. It was definitely not Penny.

"The catering company must be here," Grandmother said, walking with quick steps.

After she disappeared into the hallway, there were more voices and the sounds of dishes being moved in and out.

Colton and Maddox started to get up. "Need our help?"

"No, no," the same female voice replied.

"It's best if all of you stay out of it," Grandmother said. "They know what they're doing."

They set up a few folding tables with chafing dishes in the living room. I noticed my grandparents had rearranged some of the furniture to make space for us all.

Everything was ready in less than twenty minutes. The entire team left and promised to be here to clean up as soon as Grandmother gave them the green light.

"That was efficient," Grandmother said.

Once again, I exchanged a glance with Cade. If she could get used to this, it was a win.

The door opened again, and we all knew Spencer and Penny had arrived because Ben was giggling.

Diane smiled. "I love this family gathering," she said.

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