Page 70 of Eternal Hoptimist

“Caleb likes him too—after talking to Parker about the food truck situation. It was fun when we went out to dinner. He’d fit in with our merry band of misfits,” Austin said.

“I think he seems cool too. His family speaks highly of him,” Seth added.

I was speechless and overwhelmed by their support. I seriously didn’t expect it at all. I was so certain they would give me a healthy ration of shit for falling for yetanotherperson so quickly.

“What makes this time different?” I hadn’t meant to say that aloud.

“Because you’re different, E. You’ve been yourself with him and haven’t tried to twist yourself into what you think he wants. You’ve beenyou, which is how it should be.” My eyes stung as Ty wrapped his arm around my neck. “Relationships are bullshit.”

“Here, here,” Dom said.

“But I know you believe in them, and I believe in you and Parker. Now enough of this sappy shit. Are we done with the meeting? Can we go drink and watchGolden Girlsnow?”

“Yeah, let’s go.” I pushed an unsuspecting Ty off my lap. He landed on the ground with a thud.

“Ow! That hurt my ass. Gonna kiss it better?” He waggled his eyebrows.

“I wouldn’t kiss your ass with Dom’s lips.” I ruffled his hair, then took my dishes to the kitchen, smiling the whole way.

CHAPTER 26

PARKER

Hector:Did you remember to get the cookies I ordered?

Parker:I did

Hector:And the photo booth props?

Parker:Yes

Hector:What about the balloons?

Parker:Oh my god! Did my mom tell you to text me?

Hector:She just wants to make sure you pick up everything she needs for the party before you leave Portland!

Parker:You two will be the death of me. Yes. I have everything on the list that she’s texted me thrice

Hector:Thank you. Bring me back a piece of cake! Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your better half [kissy face emoji]

* * *

Mom decked out the Dahlia Springs community center for Dad’s birthday. Clusters of red and silver balloons were grouped around the room. She’d said she’d bought sixty-five in honor of Dad’s age. Clear vases filled with golf balls and candy hearts were in the center of each table in a usual mishmash of Valentine’s Day and Dad.

“Ethan, I’m thrilled you could make it.” Mom went in for a hug.

Gracious and warm as always, he eagerly returned it. “Thanks for having me. Where’s the birthday boy?”

Mom beamed at him. “Probably trying to do keg stands off the one you delivered earlier.” She patted his cheek. “You didn’t need to do that.”

Heat flushed my insides. He’d delivered a keg for my dad’s birthday?This man is incredible.

Ethan sheepishly glanced at me before returning his attention to my mom. “It was nothing. I’m honored to be able to celebrate him.”

Mom turned to me. “A keg of your dad’sfavoritebeer.”

I could tell she wanted to ask whether we wanted a spring or autumn wedding, but thankfully, she’d installed her filter before the party. Or at least I thought so until she patted my cheek and said, “He’s a keeper.” Mom winked and left me sputtering in her wake.

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