cookie. “You get to eat this stuff whenever you want?”
He chuckled at his brother’s envy, his eyes traveling to Aubrey at the other side of the backyard. She was laughing at something his mom said, her nose crinkled in the way he adored. His heart stopped for a split second before it kicked up double time. God, he loved her so much. As though she’d heard his thoughts, Aubrey’s gaze sought his. When their eyes met across the way, time slowed and sound faded, and it was just the two of them. A soft blush spread across her cheeks, and love glowed on her face. He really did have all the luck.
“Close your mouth.”
Seth’s wry words brought him back to earth, and Landon turned toward him, failing miserably to wipe the bliss off his face.
“I think you drooled a little, too. Here, let me wipe it off,” his brother said, reaching out with his thumb.
“Watch it, kid. I’m your hyung. Show me some respect.” Landon pushed away his hand with a huff of laughter. “Or I’m confiscating the cookies.”
“Not cool, man.” He managed to look injured before he stuffed a whole cookie in his mouth. “Not. Cool.”
“I asked you to put those on the picnic table, not hoard them for yourself.” Aubrey stood across from Seth, eight months’ pregnant, with her fists placed firmly on her hips. “Besides, you have to save room for Landon’s tri-tips and gal-bi.”
“I’ll take them there right now.” His hotshot photographer brother rose to his feet, smiling sheepishly. He apparently would do anything for Aubrey, even give up his precious cookies.
“Thanks for putting up with my bossiness.”
“You? Bossy?” Seth widened his eyes, shaking his head vehemently. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”
“Enough,” Landon said, laughing at Seth hamming it up for Aubrey. “Go put the cookies where they belong.”
Seth swaggered off with a wide grin, heading toward the far table where Tara stood. Landon had caught his brother watching her with his mouth gaping and had felt a brief pang of concern. Seth had a reputation as a player, but Tara was in a league of her own. He shook his head. It was none of his business.
“Take a break, sweetheart.” Landon tugged Aubrey down onto his lap and cradled her in his arms.
“Not you, too,” she groaned. “Everyone keeps telling me to sit down. All I’ve done is take breaks. Now let me up before your mom sees us.”
“My mom isn’t that old-fashioned.” He kissed her forehead and settled her more comfortably on his legs.
“You’re right.” She sighed and finally relaxed against him, her head falling to his shoulder. “I love how she sees beauty in the most mundane objects. Maybe that’s why her paintings are so stunning.”
“It’s great to have our family and friends over, but please don’t tire yourself out. The baby’s coming in a few weeks.”
“That’s precisely why we’re having this barbecue today. Besides, our moms won’t let me lift a finger.” She tilted her head to smile up at him and cupped his cheek with a warm hand. “You know I wanted to share our home with everyone before it’s turned upside down by a tiny baby and two clueless parents.”
“I know.”
Aubrey was mostly teasing, but Landon’s stomach dropped a little. She was going to be a wonderful mom, but he had no idea how to be a father. One thing was certain. He would always be there for his little girl and love her unconditionally.
“I guess I’m just jealous of sharing you,” he said.
She blushed, smiling shyly, and Landon couldn’t help but lean down and kiss her. It was meant to be soft and chaste, but she whimpered and pressed against him when he tried to pull back. Well, then. He parted her lips with his tongue and drank his fill until he was ready to carry her to their room.
“Ahem.” He heard the sound from a distance. “Kids, please.”
Aubrey pulled back with a gasp, and Landon glared at Tara, who just rolled her eyes at him.
“I’d tell you guys to get a room, but we need you to provide us with more delicious food. In the meantime, cool it just a bit. My parents have been staring at that fence since your lips touched. They’re not as with the times as your moms.”
“Would you please keep her company while I start the grill?” Aubrey had her face buried in her hands, and Landon carefully placed her on his seat as he stood. He grinned at Tara,