Page 136 of The Rogue

Levi laughs. “To be fair, it was an interview, andyoucalled me.”

“You got my girl here?”

“I’ve gotmygirl here.”

She pushes him aside as Tessa stands. It’s a quick hug before Bessie pulls back. “Look at you.” She eyes her belly. “Sure don’t look like he made you sleep with the horses.”

Tessa laughs nervously, glancing at Levi, who’s cocking his head in amusement.

“Alright,” I start. “Dinner’s getting cold, everyone. Let’s sit.”

Levi wraps an arm around his wife’s shoulders, leaning in to tease her about something that’s not meant for our ears. She giggles, burrowing her head in his chest.

Noah and Charlie have a similar exchange across the room, and it warms my heart to see everyone happy. Settled.Living.

“Hey.” Lonnie pokes my side, making me smile down at her. “You sure it’s okay I’m here?”

I nod. “I’ve got something for you.”

Her eyes flash with wonder. At thirty-four, she doesn’t feel sixteen years younger than me. The biggest reason I’ve yet to kiss this woman is my son. Inviting her tonight is my first step in approaching him for…consent? Blessing? Hell, I don’t know. But Lonnie and I agreed. I need to cross that bridge first. And I’ve waited long enough.

“What is it?”

“We don’t open presents on Christmas Eve.”

She smirks and points behind me. “Tell that to him.”

I turn around and find Jackson by the tree, tearing the corner of a large, wrapped box. “Jackson.”

He jolts. “It’s got my name on it.”

There’s a rumble of a laugh, but it’s not from me. “Hey, you two,” Levi says, stepping up to where we’re standing at the archway.

I step back with a breath. “I know. We’re coming.”

Levi shrugs. “I was just going to say…” His eyes shift between the two of us, and he points up. “Mistletoe.” Then walks away with a grin.

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