Page 54 of Aloha, Seattle

Tess snaps her fingers like she has finally figured out what Leah reminds her of. “She looks like a mosquito!” Tess adds with a hearty laugh.

And I can’t help but laugh too.

Theo reaches us and he is flashing that warm, wicked grin I love so much.

“So, none of you wanted to come and rescue me from her?” He snickers.

“What’s the matter, Theo?” Tess stifles another laugh. “Not too fond of human size mosquitos?”

“You’re wrong for that and you know it.” Theo points an accusatory finger her direction, hiding the smile fighting to spread across his face.

“And yet, you haven’t disagreed with me.” Her eyebrows wiggle.

“Because he can’t,” Athena places her hands on her ample hips. “And the nerve of her touching you like that.”

Theo kisses his Mama’s forehead. “Mama, don’t pay her any mind. She just wants attention.”

“I don’t like her.” Athena storms toward the front doors to make her way toward the beach volleyball amenities.

Theo’s eyes widen and even Tess looks shocked.

“What?” I look from Theo to Tess.

“Mama never says she doesn’t like someone.” Tess explains quickly.

“Never?

They both shake their heads simultaneously.

“Wow.” I watch Mama Athena walk away and my love for her grows tenfold.

“Ready for the Wedding Games?” Caleb throws his arms over Theo and Tess’s shoulders.

“You mean, are Cate and I ready to beat both your asses?” Tess elbows Caleb with a mischievous grin.

“You wish.” Caleb’s face scrunches.

“Would it interest you to know that Dad has already placed money on Team Bride winning?” Tess looks like she has just revealed a secret.

“Perhaps Dad forgot we have Liam on Team Groom. He’s the most athletic guy in Seattle.” Caleb doesn’t look bothered.

“And if Liam wasn’t able to say… compete today… you’d still feel confident?” Tess folds her arms across her chest.

Caleb pales. “Please tell me Liam’s playing.”

“Do you see him anywhere?” Tess asks, a pouty lip forming.

Caleb scans the lobby and I also come to realize Liam is missing.

“Oh God.” Caleb mutters in a panic.

“I look forward to seeing you two in those grass skirts.” Tess’s eyebrows wiggle again as she takes my hand in hers and drags me away.

I attempt to look back at the boys. “Don’t turn around,” Tess orders as she continues to pull me toward the front door.

I obey and keep my eyes forward. “What’s wrong with Liam?” I whisper.

Her eyes are dancing in villainous delight. “Nothing at all.”

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