A Merry Vested Wedding - Melanie Moreland Page 0,38

They always stayed close. He would often tuck a blanket over her knees and tug her shawl over her shoulder if it slipped off. She fed him tidbits, their intimate gestures never changing over the years. Thomas sat in a chair close to Bentley, the two of them talking quietly as they ate. I heard him telling his parents about some changes to the marine biology program and being excited by the new direction. They listened intently, obviously pleased to have their son close for a short time. Chloe sat nearby, her knees tucked to her chest, nibbling away, lost in thought.

Richard and Katy were nestled in the corner, Gracie perched close by and the twins, Gavin and Penny, talking up a storm as usual, often finishing each other’s sentences. Their youngest, Matthew, was the quiet one of the group. He sat on the ottoman, listening and observing as always. Addi and I were beside them, and Jaxson had eased his big body to the floor, angled so he faced Gracie directly. She had relaxed somewhat and was cordial, although I had a feeling it was more to show her parents that all was well rather than how she really felt.

Not far away, Reed sat on the floor in front of Heather, his head leaning against her lap. They always sat between their two families, equal and happy.

Van and his girls sat together, Liv watching Reed with a smile. They loved Heather, and I knew they were hoping Reed made it official soon.

Reid and Becca and their crew were close to the tree. That was their spot and always had been. Reid was a big kid himself and loved the holidays. Halton and his gang rounded out our group. They took up a whole section of the room, and the laughter was constant with them.

Nan and Pops never sat anywhere for long. They perched and visited each group, checking everyone was good and that we were all happy. I knew Nan was disappointed that her grandson Colin and his family weren’t here this year. It was his wife’s turn to have Christmas with her family, but they would be here before New Year’s. Jordan’s kids stayed home this year since his eldest granddaughter was pregnant and too far along to travel. He and Nan were headed to BC in a few days and would have their holiday time with them then.

It occurred to me that one day, hopefully not too far in the future, Addi and I would have our own little pod. That our parents would be fussing over our child, and we would claim our own space in the room. The thought did something to my chest, warming it and making me smile.

Addi leaned close, whispering. “What are you thinking about, Brayden? You’re smiling like you just won the lottery.”

I bent low and kissed her. I could do that now without worry. She was my wife, and Bentley could no longer clear his throat if he thought I was getting too close or lingering on her lips too long. I could kiss her anytime I wanted to. But I kept it respectful. For today.

“I did win the lottery. I got you.” I kissed her again, making her smile. “I was thinking about the future, Addi. Adding our kids to this crazy mix. Watching them grow up the way we did, surrounded by this outrageous family.”

Her eyes widened. “Can you imagine?” she whispered back.

“Yeah, I can. It’s gonna be awesome.”

“But we’re going to wait a while.”

I brushed my mouth to hers again. “Yes. I need you to myself for a while. Just you and me.” I touched her cheek, drifting my fingers down her skin. “I’m not ready to share just yet.” I moved in for another kiss when the familiar sound of a throat clearing caught my attention. I looked up and met Bentley’s eyes. He waved his fingers between us, indicating he was still watching me, but he did so with a wink and a grin. I couldn’t resist kissing Addi one last time.

He and I both chuckled.

After eating, we turned to the tree and the mountain of gifts it contained. Our tradition was that each person got a gift to open, and we all admired them. Nothing was hurried or rushed. When we were kids, it was different, but over the years, we had learned how to enjoy it. Savor the time. Admire the wrapping and the gift that lay under the festive bows.

Jaxson looked startled