Page 25 of A Play for Love

“It hurts a little bit, but I’m fine.”

“Where’s our son?”

“Aunt Barb has him with her down at the other end of the table.”

After we finished dinner, it was time to do the gender reveals. The entire family gathered around the two decorated rectangular tables where two large crème-colored boxes that said ‘Boy or Girl’ across them. Emilia and Sebastian stood behind table number one, and Charlotte and Conner stood behind table number two.

“Emilia and Sebastian, when we all count to three, open your box!” Georgia exclaimed.

We all counted to three, and when they opened their box, several blue balloons flew up with “It’s a boy” written across them.

“That’s my brother!” Simon grinned as he pointed at Sebastian.

We all clapped and shouted as we hugged and congratulated them.

“It’s Charlotte and Conner’s turn!” Georgia exclaimed.

We counted to three, and when they opened their box, several pink balloons flew up with “It’s a girl” written across them. Conner shouted and dropped to his knees, holding his arms in the air.

“Yes!” he shouted as we could see the tears in his eyes.

“You okay, bro?” I chuckled as I hugged him.

“I’m good.” He hugged me tight.

“Congrats, Charlotte.” I kissed her cheek and pulled her into an embrace. “You’re going to have your hands full with a little girl and Conner.”

“I know. He is going to spoil her so badly.” She laughed.

I went up to the bar with my brothers and cousins for one last drink before the party ended.

“So, let me think for a second,” Simon said. “There will be seven girls and three boys in this family. Three of us don’t have kids yet.”

“Speaking of which, bro.” Sam placed his hand on Simon’s shoulder. “When are you and Grace having kids? Have you even talked about it?”

“Yeah. We’ve talked, and we’re not taking precautions anymore.” The corners of his mouth curved upward as he winked at us.

While we were gathered around the bar, Aunt Barb walked over.

“How was your time at the cabin?” Christian asked her.

“It was good. I did a lot of thinking, and I wanted to let you boys know I’m going on a trip in a few days.”

“Alone?” Simon asked.

“Yes, son, alone. I’m going to a wellness retreat in Sedona, and when I return, I will see Charlotte weekly to work on my issues. I’ve also decided that I’m going to sell the house when I return.”

“Why?” Sam’s brows furrowed.

“Yeah, Mom, why? You’re selling our childhood home?” Stefan asked.

“If I want to start a new and fresh life, I need to let go of things in my past. That’s the house I lived in with your father and with Curtis. Don’t forget, I also shot a man in my living room. The house no longer serves me, and it’s time to move on and start the next chapter in my life.”

“So, are you moving out of state?” Simon asked, and Sebastian slapped the back of his head.

“Ouch, bro. Damn.”

“No. I will never move away from you boys and my grandchildren. But don’t you worry.” She placed her hand on Simon’s cheek. “I’ll be even closer. I’ll talk to you boys when I return from my trip.” She walked away.

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