151

Arianna squeezes me against her fit and toned body when we arrive at the house this morning. The family is gathered in the living room except for Mom—she’s in the kitchen, but she’s aware I’m coming home, and the other kids are in school, except for Mira and Martin, the younger ones are playing in their room.

“Wow.” Ari studies me from head to toe, although I’m sure there’s not much difference in my appearance from the day I left three days ago. “You look… beautiful. Happy.”

I grin. “Thank you.”

“Brandon.” Arianna smiles at my fiancé as well and greets him. “Congratulations to both of you.”

“Thank you, Arianna.” Brandon tenses up behind me, then greets Jason next with a shoulder pat but already eyeing Chris.

“Well.” C opens his arms, and I embrace him as well. I feel a soft squash in his arms before he releases me. “Welcome home, Laynie.”

“Thank you for waiting for me, C.”

“I only have three favorite women in the world. I wouldn’t miss your announcement.” He beams.

“Yeah, thank you. O