Page 259 of Come Back to Me

“I-I…”

She clucks her tongue. “I know you love him, Tee. You wouldn’t be this weird if it wasn’t love and you’re barely buzzing about sharing a roof with Liam Donnghal and?—”

“I’m just on edge.”

“Why? He’s been making cow eyes at you all night. That man’s ready to declare what he feels for you to the world.”

I close my eyes because I want the world to know too but… is she right? It’s clear to me that I’m dumb around Cody. What the hell was I thinking when I wanted to fake un-date him?

How do I tell him I want the world to know too?

And that I’d like to start with his family?

And what if he’s okay with keeping things on the DL?

And—

Zee sighs. She tugs me into a hug. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine.” Not. When she studies me, I give her a quick squeeze. “Come on. They’ll be missing the snacks,” I mumble as she collects the sugar cookies she baked and I pick up two massive bowls of caramel popcorn that Mrs. Abelman must have made earlier.

The family get-together is much needed. Though I might be the odd one out to the others, they don’t make me feel that way. I’m as much a part of the furniture as they are. And it’s wonderful.

But Zee’s right.

It’d be better if I was sprawled on top of Cody’s knee…

One by one, the couples break off and go to their respective suites. Mrs. Abelman and Lindsay included.

Until Cody, Callan, and myself are left behind.

Callan barely notices until he asks, “Mia, what’s your preference for the band’s playlist?”

“Um, Baby Cowboy, she went to bed ten minutes ago,” I say dryly.

His eyes bug and he jumps up. “I need an answer now!”

“You’ll get a sightful if you do. I don’t think they’re discussing their vows,” Cody tacks on.

Baby Cowboy, in his infinite wisdom, storms off.

Despite my whimsical mood, I turn to Cody with a wicked glint in my eye. “Wait for it.”

He smirks. “Waiting.”

“Three…”

“Two…”

“One.”

“Callan! WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING IN HERE?”

Both of us burst out laughing at Cole’s outraged shout, but Cody snags my hand in his and drags me onto his lap. We’re sitting, until we’re not. And he walks us away from Lindsay’s solarium and into his favorite den.

I nuzzle my face in his throat, scenting him and warmth and…

Home.

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