Page 47 of Yours Temporarily

“They’re probably still asleep.” That is if Zuri slept well in an unfamiliar place. “I was thinking of taking Zee to the arcade today if you and Hope want to join us.”

I then nod to the first people we’ve encountered on the trail.

“Hope and I planned to spend the day with you, so yeah, let’s show Zuri our old stomping grounds.”

I chuckle, grateful to have this time with my brother and his help in making Zuri’s stay as enjoyable as possible. I can’t guarantee what awaits us during our dinners in my childhood home though. That’s why I flew in a day earlier than Mom expects so we could settle in before I thrust Zuri into Mom’s orbit.

***

Daylight blends into darkness as we pull into the driveway of my childhood home nestled in the mountains. After a day spent showing Zuri our quaint town and revisiting our favorite spots, we feel rejuvenated, and ready for the family gathering.

“You grew up here?” Zuri whispers, nudging my arm.

I sort of understand why she’s gawking. “That’s right… my neck of the woods.” A spacious three-story home with a full basement for just four people is way too much space.

“Wow. It’s… lovely.”

“Thanks.”

We walk up the path and a florist’s van is parked among the many cars scattered beyond the driveway on the pavement that expands into the front yard. I hadn’t realized relatives were arriving four full days before the wedding.

“Seems some family members arrived earlier than expected.” Gavin leads the way with Hope by his side. Zuri and I follow, absorbing the sights—the expansive yard and stately mansion backed by sprawling land. Unseen around back, there’s a pool, hot tub, and spaces filled with memories, including Gavin’s almost-wedding disaster two summers ago.

As he pushes the door open, noise and laughter spill out, welcoming us back into the fold. Aunt Patty, clad in her signature brown suit, strides toward us, her brown eyes widening. More gray streaks through her auburn hair than I remember. She beams and opens her arms wide for an embrace. “Oh my! Look at you boys.”

Her warmth envelops us as we step into the hallway, the air fragrant with the fresh flowers from the vast bouquet on the cabinet.

“Aunt Patty.” Gavin wraps her in a hug before I take my turn while complimenting her timeless appearance. I love her simple soap scent, so different from Mom’s preference for luxurious perfumes.

“You both have beautiful ladies at your side.” She steps back, taking in Hope and Zuri, and her familiar kindness warms my heart. I introduce Zuri as my fiancée, and Aunt Patty’s embrace is as welcoming as her smile. Gavin presents Hope, his bride-to-be, and Aunt Patty cups Hope’s cheeks, her welcome starkly different from Mom’s often-reserved greetings.

Then she wags a finger between Gavin and me. “I’m not happy that you boys haven’t visited me in so long.” She turns to Hope and Zuri, grasping each of their hands, and urges them to coax us into visiting her in Oklahoma. “There’s more than enough room, y’all know. And we ladies can have fun while the boys enjoy the property and get on their fishing adventures.” Laughing, she lets go of them. “Boys, did your mom tell you your uncle built another house for his ‘collection’?”

The click of heels echoes through the hallway, prompting us all to turn. Mom, the epitome of grace and poise, approaches and now commands the space. “Are you guys coming in?”

Aunt Patty rubs my back. “I figured if I didn’t keep the boys here, you may never give us the chance to catch up.”

“Don’t tell me you’re still convincing them to come to your farm.” Mom waves her black-painted nails toward her sister, Aunt Patty.

“I like her farm.” I lean in to peck Mom on the cheek.

“We’re planning a visit next summer.” Gavin embraces Mom.

Aunt Patty leaves and promises to be back from her car in a few minutes.

“Hope.” Mom nods toward Gavin’s fiancée, her smile not quite reaching her eyes—a frostiness veiled in politeness.

“Nice to see you again, Sara.” Hope gives a little wave, her half smile underscoring the unresolved distances between them. I admire her resilience in agreeing to let my mother orchestrate the prewedding events, despite Gavin protesting that she didn’t need to honor Mom’s wishes.

But now, the spotlight’s on me, and in this moment, Zuri and I must maintain our act. I draw her closer and kiss the top of her curly hair. “Zee, remember my mom, Sara. Mom, Zuri.”

“Your fiancée?” Mom’s eyebrows arch as she takes in Zuri. “I assumed you two would’ve ended things before the wedding.”

Zuri’s soft hand squeezes mine, and I square my shoulders, meeting Mom’s skepticism with a seriousness I hope masks the hot fury blazing within. “What gave you that idea?”

Unfazed, Mom scans Zuri’s left hand. “I see you’re wearing your ring today. After your little fight, ghosting or whatever it was, I figured—”

“It’s called a couple’s fight, Mom.” I grit my teeth. “I’m sure you and Dad get those sometimes?”

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