Page 22 of With This Ring

“First, you need to get approved for a mortgage—that’s if youcan afford one,” he continued. “Or you’ll need to sign a lease if you have to rent. You’ll have to come up with either a down payment for a house or a security deposit, along with first and last month’s rent for an apartment.” He shook his head. “I’m not convinced you and Shane are ready for that.”

All eyes around the table focused on Hudson. As if on cue, Shane’s parents both set down their utensils. Layla’s and Shane’s eyes rounded, while shock flickered across Aunt Trudy’s and Melody’s faces.

Hudson turned his attention back to his sister and her fiancé. “I can help you both with that, but will you be able to make the payments?”

Ire sparked in Layla’s eyes. “We have it handled, Hud, but thanks for the tip.”

“Do youreallyhave it handled?” Hudson turned to Shane’s parents, who watched him with expressions of displeasure. “Layla, it’s time to grow up. A marriage is more than a wedding and a pretty dress.”

Patrick leaned forward, resting his arm on the white tablecloth. His lips formed a thin line. “I think they’re old enough to make their own decisions.”

Hudson felt his aunt place her hand on his elbow, but he ignored her. “Do you agree, Mrs. Simpson?”

“Yes, I do.” Libby’s expression was unflappable. “Shane and Layla are responsible young adults, and we’re excited for their future.”

“Now, Melody,” Aunt Trudy began, her sunny tone sounding a bit forced, “I hear you’re looking to go to UNC Charlotte in the fall. What do you plan to study?”

Hudson cut into his steak while his aunt forced a subject change with Melody. He glanced around the table, taking in the awkward silence and sober expressions as Layla, Shane, and Shane’s parentskept their focus on their meals. He decided it best to keep the rest of his thoughts to himself—not understanding why he was the only one seeing the reality of Layla and Shane’s situation.

Later that evening, Hudson steered his SUV into his aunt’s driveway. The ride home from the restaurant had been almost silent, aside from the country music playing from the speakers. Though Layla had kept her eyes on her phone, he’d felt tension radiating from the back seat.

Aunt Trudy gathered her purse from the floorboard. “Thank you for dinner. I hope I’ll see you soon.” She gave Hudson a quick pat on the arm.

“You know you will.”

Aunt Trudy climbed out of the SUV and started toward the porch. Then Layla pushed herself out of the back seat and followed her.

When she didn’t even say goodbye, Hudson leapt out of the car. “Hey, Layla,” he called after her. “What’s wrong now?”

His sister spun to face him, her face a mask of fury. “I think you’ve reached a new low, Hud. It was bad enough that you questioned Shane about his work, but calling us both out at dinner was even worse.”

“Calling you out?” His voice rose. “I was only asking if you’ve thought about the future—”

She held up her hand. “Save it! I’ve had enough, Hud. I don’t need you lecturing me about what it takes to be an adult. From now on, you can keep your opinions to yourself because I don’t want to hear them.”

“Layla, I’m only trying to help.”

“Well, keep your help to yourself too.” She pushed the front door open and pinned him with a glare. “And our truce is over.”

“Is it?” he asked. “But you’ll take my money to pay for your wedding?”

Her mouth opened and then closed, her gaze sharpening with every second.

“If you’re such a grown-up, Layla, maybe you should pay for your own wedding.”

“Layla?” Aunt Trudy called from the front porch. “It’s late, and you have to get up early for work tomorrow.”

“I’m coming,” his sister responded before glowering at Hudson. “Then keep your money,” she hissed before shutting the door behind her.

Frustration boiled under his skin. He climbed into the front seat, slammed the door, and backed out onto the road, then started toward the Airbnb a few blocks away.

He ran his tongue over his teeth. He had no idea how to get through to his stubborn sister, especially if Shane’s family and his aunt were all supporting the wedding. He was at a loss as to how to stop it. What kind of a future would she have with Shane? He couldn’t stand the idea of his sister marrying a guy with no career goals.

When his phone rang, he connected the call over Bluetooth. “Hey, Darren,” he answered, trying to sound upbeat despite the irritation plaguing him.

“I was wondering how things were going down there in Flowering Glen.”

Hudson shook his head. “FloweringGrove. And unfortunately, things are a little tense here.”

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