Chapter Twenty-Four #3
“Don’t.” He was better off not knowing.
Danny pulled back, meeting his stare with a tight smile. “I figured. Look, Mom can’t not welcome you, Beck, and Heavenly back for Christmas. Since Dad died, you’ve been the glue that’s held us together, man. So if I have to fight to keep it that way, I will.”
Seth swallowed past the lump in his throat and smiled. “I appreciate that more than you know. Your support and help mean everything.”
“You got it.” Danny clapped his shoulder. “Always.”
Together, they headed back toward the reception. Half the weight Seth had been carrying around finally lifted. Every single person he needed was in his corner now—Matt, the twins, Carl, and now Danny.
Together, he hoped they could collectively bring his mother around.
But only time would tell.
He grinned as he returned to the table with a nod that made Beck and Heavenly smile from ear to ear.
By the time the waitstaff cleared the main course and people began filtering onto the dance floor, Seth noticed a shift.
His brothers—all of them—had started gravitating toward Beck.
He’d caught Jack and Connor handing Beck a beer earlier as they all laughed about something.
Matt had pulled him into a conversation about sports, joking with him like they’d known each other for years.
Even Danny had spent a few minutes talking with Beck near the bar, their body language easy and relaxed.
Their behavior was subtle, but deliberate. They were signaling acceptance without making it obvious. Seth was grateful for it—more than he could put into words.
The music suddenly stopped and the emcee’s voice crackled over the speakers. “And now, the bride’s son, Seth Cooper, would like to say a few words.”
Seth stood, grabbing his glass and tapping it lightly with a fork. The room quieted, all eyes turning toward him. He cleared his throat, his gaze settling on his mother.
“Mom,” he began, his voice steady. “I could stand here and tell everyone how you held this family together after Dad died. How you worked two jobs, kept food on the table, and somehow still managed to make sure we all felt loved. But honestly, if I did that, we’d be here all night.”
Soft laughter rippled through the crowd. Mom’s eyes were already glassy.
“The truth is, you raised five boys—and let’s be honest, that’s a miracle in itself.” More laughter. “There were moments I wasn’t sure we’d all make it to adulthood in one piece. But you were patient, strong, and determined. And you never gave up on us, even when we probably deserved it.”
She pressed her fingers to her lips, tears spilling over.
Seth’s tone softened. “You’ve spent sixteen years taking care of everyone else.
And now, finally, you have someone who’s vowed to take care of you.
” He turned to Carl. “Carl, you’re a good man.
And I’m proud to officially welcome you—and Cat and Blake—into this family.
Family is everything. It’s what we lean on when things get hard.
It’s what keeps us grounded. And I know that with you by her side, Mom’s going to have the life she deserves. ”
He raised his glass. “To Carl and Grace. May your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and a whole lot of patience—because trust me, you’re going to need it with this crew.”
The room erupted in applause and laughter. His mom stood and crossed to him, pulling him into a tight hug. “Thank you, sweetheart.”
Seth held her close, his chest tight. Please remember this on Monday, he thought. Please remember how much I love you.
When they pulled apart, Carl stepped forward and gave Seth a hearty hug. “Thank you.”
Seth nodded and handed the microphone to his mom.
Before he could step away, Blake approached and extended his hand. “I guess that makes us brothers now. You already got a bunch. I hope you don’t mind one more.”
Seth shook it firmly. “I’m happy for another one. And a sister. Never had one of those…”
“I can’t believe I have five more brothers now. I’m definitely outnumbered.” Cat grinned, wrapping him in a brief hug. “That was a great speech. “
“Thanks.” Seth nodded her way.
Suddenly, his mom raised a hand, drawing the room’s attention back to her. “Before we go any further, I have one more announcement to make. Seth, don’t sit down.” She motioned for Hudson to join them. His son’s eyes widened, but he shuffled forward, looking both embarrassed and curious.
Mom beamed as she pulled Hudson close. “I’d like to introduce my grandson, Hudson Cooper. We didn’t know about this handsome young man for too many years, but now that we do, he’s officially Seth’s son—as of this morning.”
The room erupted in applause and cheers. Hudson’s face flushed as he grinned.
Mom continued, her voice warm. “And I’m beyond thrilled to have Hudson as a part of this family. Welcome!”
She raised her glass in toast. The crowd followed.
More applause. Hudson ducked his head, clearly rattled but pleased. Seth reached over and squeezed his son’s shoulder, pride swelling in his chest.
His mom kissed Hudson’s cheek, then turned back to the crowd. “Thank you all for being here to celebrate with us. Now let’s dance!”
The band struck up again, and people began moving back toward the dance floor. Mom was all smiles—completely unaware of the storm brewing.