Page 134 of Closer

But as we make our way to his mother’s table, Sebastian’s hand never leaves mine, and I know it’s gonna be alright.

“Look, Mommy! A prince and princess are here.” At the table next to us, a little girl tugs on her mother’s sleeve, pointing at us.

Heat rises in my cheeks.

“Isn’t that sweet?” Sloan’s gaze softens as she appraises us. “You two really do make a lovely couple.”

John Barron stands by her side, his expression neutral as always. Hating me, as always.

“Thank you, Mrs. Barron.” I bow my head.

“Ah, ah.” She pulls me into a hug. “Sloan. Did you forget?”

“Right, Sloan.”

“Dad.” Sebastian regards him. “I think you still remember Lil?”

“Of course. Nice to see you again,” John shakes my hand.

“I’m happy you two came.” Sloan clasps her hands together. “First Gemma and Elijah, now you two, and soon we’ll have lots of grandchildren jumping around.”

John chokes on his drink, coughing violently before composing himself. “There’s no need to rush things, dear. They’re not even married.”

Sloan elbows him. “Oh hush, you.”

“Maybe.” Sebastian takes my hand, his eyes never leaving mine as he presses a lingering kiss to my ring finger. “It’s time. You and me. Married.”

I can barely breathe. Is he serious? Is he really suggesting…

“Oh,” Sloan coos. “Aren’t they sweet?”

“Yes.” John nods emotionless.

“Actually, speaking of family.” Sloan loops her arm through mine. “I took the liberty of inviting some of yours.”

“What?” I peer at Sebastian, who seems unfazed by the news.

John, on the other hand, is choking again—clearly not happy about it. “You did what?”

“I invited her brothers and Marc, it’s time.” Sloan waves dismissively.

“You didn’t tell me that,” John says.

“I wonder why, darling.” Sloan glares at him before whirling around to me. “I do hope they’ll come. I’d love to see them again, especially since things are clearly different now.”

John’s face contorts like he swallowed a lemon. “Well, would you look at that. I see an old friend over there.” He bows his head. “If you’ll excuse me.”

Sebastian watches his father go, his brow furrowed.

“That man, I swear.” Sloan sighs, shaking her head. “We’ll continue this lovely chat later, sweeties. I better go make sure he doesn’t start another war.” With a wink, she’s off, following John’s retreating figure.

“Well, that went well.” Sebastian’s fingers intertwine with mine.

I snort. “Your dad looked like he was about to have an aneurysm.”

“Forget him.”

“Sebastian?”

---