My thoughts shatter at Reagan’s gasp. I look over to see Riggs on one knee, a black jewelry box open and a diamond ring glittering in the light of the tree.
“Reagan Elizabeth Mills, I knew from the day we met that you were mine. It may have taken us the long way around to find each other, but we did. You are mine, and I am yours. Always. Will you marry me?”
I look around and realize everyone is crying, and my own eyes burn with tears.
My sister looks directly into the eyes of the only man worthy of her and answers, “Yes!”
Riggs slides the ring carefully on her finger, before picking her up and twirling her around once. When she comes back to the ground, they kiss, and I mean—gross—but also, I’m so happy for them.
My parents descend on my sister, while Nora hugs her son. They embrace for a long moment, whispering words between them.
Then they switch, and Nora hugs my sister, holding her face in her hands and telling her she’s always been a daughter to her, from the first time they met. It’s sweet and tender.
Riggs approaches me and I grab him in a hug, patting him on the back. “Congratulations, man. I am so happy for you and Rea.”
“Thanks, J. Means a lot. I did want to ask you something.”
“Oh—since you didn’t ask my permission?” We both laugh.
“Yeah, I definitely talked to your dad. But I was hoping you’d be my best man?”
That hits me right in the chest. I consider the man a brother and I clear my throat before responding. “I’d be honored.”
Then I turn to my sister, who has two streams of tears flowing down her cheeks, and I open my arms wide for her to walk into like she has millions of times.
Reagan does just that and we embrace.
“I’m so happy for you, Sister.” I say as she nods and sniffles.
“Thank you, Jordan.”
“Let me see the ring.” She giggles before putting her hand in front of me. It’s classic and timeless, just like Reagan. A single princess cut diamond is on a platinum band with tiny sapphires along the outside.
“You did good, my man.” Riggs beams down at my sister like she’s the sun in the center of his universe.
“Thanks, J.”
“Well,” Mom says, wiping a stray tear, “I have pajamas for everyone, including you, Nora. Then we can celebrate with some hot chocolate andHome Alone, of course.” We all follow orders and thankfully the pajamas aren’t terrible this year. We’ve got black fleece pajama pants with Christmas trees in different shades of green all over them. Then Mom had mercy and gave everyone a perfect Christmas green sweatshirt. I realize that she probably wanted to go easy on the crazy so Riggs and Nora felt comfortable.
The restof Christmas passes by with our normal traditions and gift giving. My sister loves the books Mackenzie and I found for her in London. I plaster on a smile, but deep down I know something is missing. It’s not something—it’s someone. It’s her. The girl who has held my heart since we were fourteen. She’ll be home in a week, and I’m going to make sure she stays mine—for good.
Before I lay down that night, I pull out my phone and smile at the message waiting for me.
Mack
Merry Christmas, J!
Merry Christmas, Mack!
Jordan! The gifts …
I told you I’ll give you the world.
I don’t know what I did to deserve you.
I miss you!
You’re way too good for me, Mackenzie Banks. But I’m not letting you go.
