Rosalee stood tall and flashed a beautiful smile in my mom's direction. "I am Xavier's significant other. Before that, it was my responsibility to take care of Violet. I know her well."
I smiled, loving the way she took ownership of both me and Violet without making Mom feel left out. "Someone special," she murmured to herself. "More secrets, Xavier?"
"It's new," I explained with a sheepish expression because I didn't have a good reason for keeping her out of all the important developments in my life. "You were busy with your dinner party."
"Too busy for my son and granddaughter, is that what you think?"
"It's a trap," Rosalee whispered. "Donotanswer that."
"Of course not. I just didn't want to bother you." That much was true, even if it wasn't the full truth. Mom could be a lot when her mind was set on something, and I wanted to enjoy Violet and Rosalee before she interfered.
"Excellent. Does this mean I can expect a wedding sometime soon?" Her beaming, wide smile should have put me on edge, but this time around, Mom and I were on the same page.
"Pretty soon, yeah," I answered.
"Only time will tell," Rosalee answered at the same time, her smile sweet and serene.
Mom flashed a wide smile. "Oh, I like her. She's not going to be bowled over, that's for sure."
I wrapped an arm around Rosalee and pulled her in close. "That's for sure. She runs circles around me."
Rosalee beamed a smile at me. "I do my best."
I leaned forward and pressed a kiss to her soft lips. "You keep me on my toes, babe. Always."
"Oh my God," Mom cooed. "You're in love!" She held Violet close and kissed the top of her head. "That is wonderful, Xavier!"
Rosalee giggled and I glared at both women, who were seemingly happy at my discomfort. "Is it?"
"Oh yes, it absolutely is. Since you gave Nate the reins to the company, I've had no hope of grandchildren or a wedding. Now with you and Rosalee, I do!"
"Nothing is set in stone yet, Mom."
"Oh," she said with a dismissive wave of her hand. "That's what you say, but you didn't see what I saw." She giggled and held Violet close, sniffing her. "There will be a wedding in our future. Bet on it!"
I rolled my eyes while Rosalee continued to laugh and Mom loved on Violet. This was not the homecoming I expected, but it was somehow perfect. "Mom, settle down."
"Don't tell me to settle down. One of my boys is in love and has a baby; that's reason enough to celebrate. Where's the champagne?"
Rosalee's laughter echoed around the living room. "I wouldn't say no to champagne."
"You're supposed to be on my side," I grumbled and nipped her ear.
She laughed again and hugged me close. "I am always on your side, but it's fun watching you squirm."
"I love you. So much." I tugged her into my arms and hugged her close, spinning her around while she laughed. The sound was the sweetest music, and for the first time in a long damn time, I was happy.
Completely and totally happy.
It was a novel feeling, something I hadn't felt since I was a young man, but instead of questioning it, I decided to lean into it.
Embrace it.
Enjoy it.
For as long as it lasted.
Epilogue
