Page 122 of Mended Hearts

A watery laugh broke loose against his shirt. My shoulders sagged with the kind of exhale that only came from being wrapped in unconditional love. They called something over the speakers, but I barely registered the words. I just breathed, held together by my brother’s presence long enough to keep from unraveling.

Eventually, I peeled myself out of his boa constrictor hug, and without missing a beat, he slung his arm around my shoulder and led me toward the stiff plastic airport chairs.

“So,” he said, watching me carefully. “What the hell has you running out of the city?”

I wiped my hand over my mouth, cringing when I realized I hadn’t washed up post-security. “You ever just need to be anywhere but here, bubba?”

He studied me for a beat, the same stormy-gray-blue eyes as mine narrowing slightly before he gave a slow nod. “Yeah, kiddo. But, generally, I still pack a bag.”

A choked laugh cracked in my throat. “Spontaneously restless,” I mumbled, giving a weak shrug. “Figured I’d raid mom’s closet when we get there.”

He snorted and ruffled my hair like we were ten. It made me smile. Somehow, it always did.

“I hate when you cry,” he muttered. “So I’m going to pretend I believe that story, punky.”

“Appreciate it.”

“Oh,hey—look.” He pulled out his phone, the corner of his mouth tipping up as he flipped it around to show me the family thread.

There, in high-def glory, was a picture of a brand-new, rosy-cheeked baby with a full head of dark curls and a pout that would put any Instagram influencer to shame.

Tears pricked my eyes all over again.

Elora and Broderick wereparents. Holy shit.

The Fam Damily:

Broderick

Meet Robert Milo Allen. 8:39 pm, 7lbs, 7oz, 20 inches long. Elora and baby are both perfect.

Rhyett

Congratulations, brother! Kiss my sister on the noggin for me.

Jameson

Man. That’s surreal. Congrats El and Brod. Rest up sis.

Brexley

Welcome, baby Milo!! El, you did amazing!

Broderick

She’s a fucking warrior.

Maverick

Language, teach.

Hadlee

*laughing emojis*

Amazing news!! Congrats, you guys.

Axel

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