He shrugs easily. “Mabel’s with her grandkids tonight. This felt right.”
Right.
That word again.
I watch him move through the room—checking on everyone, making sure plates are passed around, refilling drinks without being asked. He’s relaxed in a way I’ve never seen him before, laughing at Nathan’s running commentary, rolling his eyes when Harvey grunts something disapproving.
It feels… real.
My attention drifts to Remi and Coleman without meaning to. They’re sitting close, her shoulder tucked into his side like it’s second nature. He hands her a napkin before she even realizes she needs one. She leans into him, murmuring something that makes his mouth curve into a soft, private smile.
The sight hits me unexpectedly hard.
My chest tightens, that quiet ache blooming right behind my ribs.
Will I ever have that?
Not just comfort. Not just safety.
But that kind of certainty.
That kind of being chosen without question.
I don’t realize I’ve been staring until Remi’s eyes meet mine. Her expression softens instantly.
A moment later, she’s at my side, gently tugging my arm. “Come with me for a second.”
She leads me into the next room, away from the noise. “You okay?” she asks, not unkind, just honest.
I hesitate, then nod. Shake my head and sigh.
“I think so,” I say. “It’s just… seeing you and Coleman.” I gesture vaguely, embarrassed. “You two are… you’re really in love.”
Her smile turns knowing. “We are.”
“I hope,” I admit quietly, “that someday someone looks at me the way he looks at you.”
Remi laughs softly—not mocking, just warm—and my brow furrows. “What?”
She reaches out, squeezing my hand. “Girly, someone already does.”
My breath catches. “What do you mean?”
She tilts her head toward the doorway. “Look.”
I turn.
Langston’s standing across the room, half-leaning against the counter, talking to Harvey—but his eyes aren’t on the conversation.
They’re on me.
Focused. Intent. Like the rest of the room has faded away.
When our eyes meet, his mouth curves into a slow smile. Not arrogant. Not playful.
Just… certain.
Then he winks.
