My cheeks heat up, but John just laughs, sliding a plate onto the coffee table. “Now, Grandpa, you know I’d never skip out on Grandma’s apple pie.”
George shrugs, grinning. “You could’ve taken one with you.”
As I make my way around the room, serving the rest of the family, Maggie calls me over to her armchair and pats the ottoman next to her. “Abby, dear, sit with me for a moment.”
I hesitate, and John gives me an encouraging smile. “Go ahead. Grandma won’t bite.”
I sit next to Maggie, who leans in, her eyes sparkling with warmth. “How’s our Johnny treating you? He’s not being too gruff, is he?”
I laugh softly, glancing at John, who is joking around with his cousin Trey. “No, not at all. He’s actually been wonderful.”
Maggie’s face softens as she nods knowingly. “I thought so. He has such a soft spot for you, you know.”
My heart skips a beat. “Really?”
“Oh, yes.” Her eyes twinkle. “I finally put two and two together, and you’re the one he’s said is so talented and how much the clients love you. I’d guess he’s had a crush on you from day one, even if he didn’t quite realize it.”
My cheeks heat. “He mentioned something about that.”
Maggie nods, her expression kind. “Good. And, dear, you make him very happy. I’ve never seen him so at ease before.”
I duck my head, smiling as warmth blooms in my chest. “Thank you. That means a lot.”
“You’re welcome.” Maggie glances at John. “Don’t let him get away with too much nonsense.”
I laugh, wishing I had a grandmother exactly like her. I never knew either of mine. “I won’t.”
I go to the loveseat and sit next to John. He looks at me. “What did Grandma have to say?”
I shrug. “Just that she likes me better than you.”
He feigns shock. “Betrayed by my own grandmother.”
“Maybe if you play your cards right, you’ll earn back her favor,” I tease, and he pulls me closer.
I balance my plate on my knees, and I’m acutely aware of every point where John’s body brushes against mine. People are talking, but I can’t focus on anything but his warmth.
“You okay?” John whispers, his breath brushing against my ear and sending a shiver racing down my spine.
“Yeah,” I manage, turning slightly to look at him. “Just…thinking.”
“About your family?”
“No, actually.” I gesture around the room. “About all of this. Your family. How different it all feels here.”
John studies my face, his expression gentle. “Good different, I hope?”
“Definitely a good different.” The warmth I feel has nothing to do with the fire. “I just… I never expected to feel this comfortable here. With you and them.”
Something shifts in his gaze, a hopeful light that makes my heart ache. “I need to tell you something, Abby.”
George stands, clapping his hands to get everyone’s attention. “All right, folks. Time for a little post-dessert entertainment.”
Guess whatever John has to say needs to wait. John and I exchange a look that’s equal parts frustration and amusement.
Tommy groans dramatically. “Grandpa, please not Pictionary again? I’m still traumatized from last year when Aunt Tess tried to draw a pagoda.”
George waves his hand dismissively. “No Pictionary. We’re playing ‘Two Truths and a Lie.’ Everyone gets a turn!”
