Chapter 41 Tucker
TUCKER
Packing my apartment to start a new life with my little family was unreal.
Chaplin moved into the house a few days ago.
Oddly enough, he doesn’t like to be apart from Harper for long.
I thought he wasn’t much of a people person, but he seems drawn to her.
Honestly, I don’t blame him because so am I.
I had a lot of emotions about moving in, but the overall feeling was excitement. I needed to be with Cameron and Harper. I don’t know if it was the “honeymoon phase” or if I was just addicted to them, but they were it for me. I loved them.
I think Harper was a bit nervous about it all.
She’s been acting a bit off. Our girl has been nauseous more times than not, eating less because of it, refusing her favorite foods, and sleeping more.
Even called off work the other day because she couldn’t stop crying about Chaplin not having a friend.
I think the stress has gone to her head, but I’m sure once things are said and done, she’ll be okay.
Packing was pretty simple since Harper’s place was fully furnished.
Basically, all I was taking were my clothes and shit I’ve collected over the years.
I haven’t formed too many attachments to items since I was rarely home, but I did keep stuff from when I left the ranch.
I missed home, but my lucky horseshoe and old stuffed cow felt like a piece of home to me.
Which reminded me, I really needed to visit my grandma soon.
We talk on the phone weekly, and she’s well, but I should introduce her to my significant others.
Apparently, from what Wren had explained, Harper had already met her once before. What were the odds?
Going up and down the elevator, loading boxes and bags into my truck, was exhausting. I had sold the stuff that I wasn’t taking with me to people I knew in town and donated even more.
Once I held the last box in my arms, I looked around my empty apartment and felt…
nothing. I had lived here for four years now, and it hadn’t quite felt like home; it was a place to kick up my feet and relax, a place to sleep, and a place to eat.
Of course, I have had people over in the past few years, but this apartment didn’t mean much of anything to me.
My family did. I headed towards the door, hanging the key on the hook as the landlord had requested before locking the door and stepping out.
* * *
When we discussed living arrangements, we decided we all needed our own designated space, but Harper’s bed was large enough for all of us to sleep in when we wanted to.
The upstairs bathroom divided the two bedrooms that were across the hallway from Harper’s room.
I chose the room at the end of the hall.
I managed to haul all of my things from my truck to my new room in record time.
By the time I was done, I was sweaty and working on catching my breath.
I sat on the floor amongst my things, using my new dresser for back support.
I took out my phone to see that it was a little after two in the afternoon.
Both of my partners were at work. It was only Tuesday, but I had taken the day off to move.
I opened the group chat we made for our game night last month and sent a message.
Me: Hey, guys. Just double-checking everyone can make it this Friday.
It was rare for holidays to land on weekends, but this year, Christmas Eve was on a Friday. From what Harper has said, everyone has the day off from work. We were doing an ugly sweater party to celebrate, and honestly, I couldn’t wait.
Princess: If you’re coming pls bring something with you.
Reed: I’m bringing Wren. Does that count?
Princess: Oh, sorry you’re uninvited
Wren: Ignore him. We will be there, and we will bring booze and dessert, just haven’t decided on what yet.
Me: Thank you!
Dax: I don’t think I have much of a choice. I’m sure Harper would show up at my doorstep if I didn’t show. I’ll bring two three-foot subs. Don’t worry about cooking, let's just have a lazy day.
Loverboy: Aw, thanks, Daddy Dax! Always taking care of everyone. We will get some sides together here and pop.
Me: I’m off today, love. Let me know what to grab.
Loverboy: I’ll send you a list, Tuck. Thank you!
Wren: You guys are so cute!
Loverboy:
Reed: See you fuckers Friday.
Princess: You better show up in an ugly sweater, asshat.
Dax: Oh, he will. We match.
I was smiling to myself. Being a part of this little found family was everything to me. Nothing felt forced or uncomfortable. I just felt like I belonged. Best fucking feeling in the world.
Me: Boyfriends, coworkers, or roommates?
A reply came immediately from both of them.
Reed: Yes.
Dax: All of the above, clearly.
The rest of the group reacted to their text, and I left it at that.
As I began unpacking my belongings, turning Harper’s guest room into my room, Chap walked in, meowing and demanding love. I petted him and talked to him as if he would answer.
“Well, Chap, this is home now. We are finally home.”