Page 20 of Georgia-Blue & Hudson

5

Georgia

Gray and Hartley’s housewarming/wedding date is the talk of the town, and I’ve never been more happy for the two of them. Seeing them both so in love and expecting their first child in their new house, it stirs something within me. Gray has always wanted to start a family, and I can see him as a hands-on dad. Just like our own father.

I’m onto my second glass of wine while Gray and Huds start the grill. I help Hart pass around the platters, homemade hummus, crackers, cheese and olives as an appetizer. Then we all dig into delicious burgers outside around the table while our parents revel in the new house and how comfortable Gray and Hartley are together. Mom can’t wipe the smile off her face.

She has always wanted a bunch of grandkids. She has Trinity and Blake of course, but there’s always room for more, as she keeps telling all of us. And now with Callan and Celeste expecting, as well as Gray and Hart, she’s over the moon. I know for a fact that Brook and Eden want more kids, and Gabe and Skye have indicated it isn’t off the cards in the near future. Mom could have a football team on her hands before she knows it.

“You better take your vacation soon before all the grand babies come along, Mom,” I say as we serve the trifle she made into little bowls in the kitchen. “You’re going to be inundated with babysitting duties before you know it.”

Mom is so genuinely happy her eldest son has finally found his happiness, as we all are. A baby and a wedding are the icing on the cake.

“It’s wonderful,” she says, then whispers. “I had a feeling the pair of them would want to make things official sooner rather than later.”

“Yup.” I nod. “But while we’re on the subject of babies; I’m calling Brook and Eden next. If he has anything to do with it, she should be knocked up by Christmas.”

Mom gives me a warm smile, laying her hand on my arm. “Your time will come too, honey.”

My mouth runs dry at her unexpected words. I turn to face her. “Thanks, Mom. I know it’ll happen when it’s meant to.” I wish I could believe the words I so freely spout.

“I know you’re holding out for the one, Georgia-Blue. But he’s coming, he really is. I can feel it in my bones. It’ll be your turn next.” She tucks a lock of hair behind my ear, just like she’s done since I was small.

Tears well in my eyes. Maybe it’s the wine I guzzled, not that I'm a big drinker, but it’s possible I drank that last glass a little too fast. “You really think so?”

“I know so.”

While it’s a blast seeing all my brothers settle down and find their happily ever after, I haven’t been able to stop wondering when my time will actually come. Especially now my twin brother is married and he’s thriving with the love of his life.

“I’ve kinda given up on love, Mom. There’s way too many jerks out there. These days, you don’t know who you’re dating. Have you seen that show Catfish?”

“You watch too many late night shows, Georgia.”

“I’m serious. Not to mention that there are no guys around here that I’d even think about dating.”Except maybe one…

“It will come when you least expect it. Mark my words.”

I press my lips together and grab the can of whipped cream. It’s best to agree because my mom’s pep talks can go on and on forever. And God I love her, but it’s slightly depressing that I don’t even have a date for Liz’s wedding. “You’re right, Mom. I’m sure it will happen.”

She gives me a little nudge. “You’re going to make some lucky guy the happiest man in the world, it’s all about believing it. One day he’ll just show up out of the blue.”

I should tell Mom I’m happy as I am. I don’t need a man to complete me. But the truth is, it would be nice to find the guy I want to spend the rest of my life with.

“Now who’s been watching too many shows now, Mom?”

We share a little laugh as Hart and Skye walk into the kitchen to help with some of the leftovers from the grill.

“Isn’t it exciting about Gray and Hartley?” Skye gushes.

Mom wipes a tear as I give her a squeeze. “Gray’s wanted this for so long,” Mom says. 3, 2, 1… “Next it’ll be you and Gabriel…”

“Mom,” I scold. “Not everyone wants babies! Plus, they’ve got a handful with Trinity and that cute but crazy dog for the time being.”

Skye laughs, clearly smitten. “Never say never. I love my new job at the school and taking care of Trinity, so for now I’m justenjoying all the blessings I have and what happens will happen in its own time.”

That earns her a hug from Mom. I know from talking amongst ourselves that they do want to have a baby together, but they’ve got plenty of time for that.

I know she’ll make the best mom when the time comes. Trinity adores her.

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