Page 108 of Matchmaking the Rival

To my astonishment, Grandmother shook her head, pursing her lips. "No, he's right. Let's all go to the living room. This can wait." She didn't sound as if it could wait, but she walked toward the living room faster than I thought she was capable of.

Grandfather cleared his throat. "I couldn't help but overhear your conversation."

I wasn't surprised about that. Neither of us had kept our voices down. “Did everyone hear?"

"No, they were in the living room, too far off. But I was coming to get all of you. Listen, you know I'm not a man of many words. Your grandmother usually does all the talking."

"I know. That's how you are."

"Yes, but sometimes I think that if your father had had another example growing up, he might have turned out differently."

I stared at him. "I really doubt that."

"He never expressed his emotions, and I know he got that from me. So, I only have one bit of advice to give you: make sure you do. Does Meredith know she's important to you?"

"Of course." And yet, as I said the words, I realized Grandfather was right. She didn't. I'd never told her I loved her.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Meredith

"Honey, are you sureyou don't want to stay any longer?" Mom asked as she walked me out of the house.

"No, it's getting late."

"But it's Saturday tomorrow," Everly protested. “And Christmas Eve.”

I texted her after I left the event. When she told me she was at my parents’, I came straight over, and I spent the evening with the three people who meant the world to me. It was time to go home, though. I hadn't told them I was most likely out of a job—I didn't want to worry them when nothing was certain—but I knew if I stayed longer, I was likely to spill the beans.

My sister dashed to the door as well. I kissed her cheek and then also patted her belly. I was always hoping to feel a kick, but so far, no such luck. Mom took a step back, and my sister whispered in my ear, "There's something you're not telling us."

I smiled, just shaking my head. I knew she'd catch on eventually. Good thing I was leaving.

Traffic was light, so I arrived home in no time. After removing my coat and shoes, I headed to my bedroom, taking off my clothes. I took a long shower, rewinding the day in my mind. After stepping out, I cleansed my face of makeup before applying night cream.

Then I slipped into my bed, grabbing my phone. As I suspected, my sister had messaged me.

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