Page 86 of Comforting the Grump

“We’re moving to Forestville, into your home…which will become our home, I hope.”

“But you hate Forestville.”

Another shake of his head, but much gentler this time. “No, I don’t. I hated what it represented to me, but as you pointed out, I allowed my bad memories to overrule the many good ones I have. All my friends are here, my chosen family…and above all, you. You belong here, sunshine, not in a big city. You’d never be truly happy.”

I couldn’t believe my ears. He was saying everything I hadn’t even dared to dream of, and I’d never even asked him. “What about your job?”

“I talked to Sebastian, and he’s agreed to let me work remotely three days a week, so I only have to commute two days. That’s doable.”

“I can’t believe you’d do that for me…”

Tomás snorted. “The man is in love, sweetheart. Look at him, the besotted fool.”

Marnin shot him an annoyed look. “As if you’re any better, dickhead. Every time you look at Fir, you have these little hearts in your eyes.”

Tomás shrugged. “So? I’m not ashamed to admit he’s my whole world.”

“That’s how I feel about Cas as well,” Tiago said, and I was treated to the amazing experience of seeing those three old friends grin at each other like…well, like lovesick fools. They were something special. The only one missing was…

“What are you all standing here for?” my brother’s voice boomed from behind me, and I nearly jumped a foot into the air.

Auden, dressed in his uniform, approached us with a wide grin splitting his face. He must’ve been in on the whole thing because he showed no signs of shock or disbelief.

He kissed me on my cheek, his familiar woodsy cologne enveloping me. “Good to see you.”

In a sudden wave of emotion, I wrapped my arms around him, holding on tightly. “You’re the best brother anyone could ever wish for.”

He held me close. “Right back atcha. I loved you from the day you were born, and that will never change.”

When I finally let go of him, tears brimmed in my eyes. “I can’t believe you guys.”

“I didn’t do anything,” Auden protested. “That was all your man there.”

My man. Marnin was my man. A rush of love swept through me, and I stepped up to him, overwhelmed with gratitude and adoration.

I wanted to thank him, but words seemed inadequate—and maybe thanking wasn’t the right thing anyway. If he would even allow me to. “I love you,” I said instead. “I love you so much.”

What a privilege it was to see that face soften, to see those sharp eyes become warm and brimming with love. “You’re my everything, sunshine.”

I took a deep breath and turned to Tomás and Tiago. “I can’t express how grateful I am that you’re giving me this opportunity. I’m… I’m so honored, and if you’re sure you want me, I will happily accept.”

Tomás grinned broadly. “Good, because we already had the sign made.”

He and Tiago stepped aside. Behind them was a sign resting against the front of the building, and they picked it up and turned it over so I could read it:

Sunshine Corner

Chef Ennio Frant

I lost it. Tears streamed down my face as I hugged Tomás first, followed by Tiago, and then my brother because why not? I planted a deep kiss on Marnin’s lips, then went back to hugging everyone, and it didn’t take long before all five of us had teary eyes.

It was the single best day of my life.

EPILOGUE

MARNIN

Five Years Later

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