43
Liam
Dex is pulling up with Jackson. My parents dropped him off with Dex yesterday—apparently everyone was in on Layla’s plan, and they wanted to give us some time together. They’ll be back for Christmas day dinner. They want to spend more time getting to know Layla, who they think is great.
I go to the door to get Jackson and Dex takes off, giving us some time alone. Jackson drops his bags as he steps inside, immediately running over to hug Layla.
“You’re back!” he shouts, excitement radiating from his whole body. I stand back, grinning like a fool as they hug and break into a happy dance. I blink a few times. My eyes aren’t watering at all.
“Hey, Big J, can we talk to you for a minute?” Layla asks, upbeat and excited. Jackson is completely comfortable with her, which makes my heart nearly burst.
I move to the kitchen, facing them as they both take a seat, Layla turned toward Jackson.
“First of all,” I begin, deciding to jump right in so we can get to the good stuff. “I wasn’t just in Sacramento to visit Layla. I had an accident on the snowmobile and had to go to the hospital.” Jackson’s mouth drops open, and he looks momentarily stunned. I spin around to show him I’m alright.
“I’m completely fine, just a little sore. We didn’t tell you because we didn’t want to freak you out. And the snowmobile is no more. None of us are getting on that thing again.”
Jackson seems reassured by my little demonstration, especially since I don’t have any visible cuts or bruises to worry him. “Second of all,” I glance at our girl with a smile, “Layla is here to stay. For good. She got her own place just a few minutes away, but she’s going to be around. A lot.”
Jackson beams, wide-eyed.
“Are you serious?” he shouts.
Layla nods with a smile, and they hug again.
“This is awesome, you guys. Layla, you’re going to love living here. And remember, Uncle Liam is the best cook ever. And…can I call you Aunt Layla now?” he asks, the thought seemingly popping into his head mid-sentence.
Layla looks at me in question, dewy-eyed and smiling. I shrug, giving her a reassuring smile, signaling that it’s completely up to her. It’s absolutely fine with me.
She grins, her eyes welling with more tears, and turns back to Jackson. “Of course you can, Big J.”
I stand back, watching the two most important people in my life celebrating together. This week went from having one of the shittiest days ever to maybe the best ever. I smile, imagining the new life we’ll build here together. Maybe someday we’ll even add to our little crew.