We both dissolve into laughter.
A couple across the aisle looks at us like we’re unhinged.
As the sun dips behind the mountains, the train finally begins its descent toward St. Moritz. The snow glows pink and gold, the lakes frozen like mirrors.
“Holy hell,” I whisper. “This is insane.”
Charlie smiles softly. “Welcome to the luxury side of Switzerland.”
“I feel like I’m about to meet the royal family.”
“You basically are,” he teases. “My mom is intense on vacation.”
“Really?”
“She already planned ski outfits for us.”
“What?”
“You heard me.”
“Is this a mum thing to do, coordinating outfits for your kids?”
“I think so.”
“We’re so doing this with our kids,” I tell him.
“For sure. Matching all the way.” Charlie grins.
When the train glides into the station, everything looks absurdly perfect. Like they sweep the snow every five minutes to arrange it aesthetically.
Charlie squeezes my hand. “Ready?”
“Hell yeah.”
He laces our fingers together and pulls me gently toward the platform.
We step off the train … and there they are. His mum. His dad. His sister Faith. And Everly, waving both arms like she’s trying to flag down a helicopter.
“Charlie! Derrick!” Everly screams as she rushes up to us like it’s been years since she’s last seen us.It’s been a week.She throws herself at Charlie.
“My boys are here,” Charlie’s mum calls out as she grabs my face and kisses my cheeks. His dad shakes my hand with enough enthusiasm to break bones.
“It’s so good to see you again, Derrick,” Faith says, showing the most restraint as she gives me a small hug. “Welcome to the family chaos.” She smirks.
“I just left my own, so I’m prepped,” I say.
“How was the train? Isn’t it amazing?” Charlie’s mum gasps.
“It felt like a dream. Everything is so insanely beautiful.”
“Wait until you see where we are staying, it’s going to blow your mind.” Everly grins.
“Mom’s bougie, she needs all her things,” Faith adds.
“Hey, not only me, your father likes nice things too.”
“I’m getting old, I need comfort,” Charlie’s father grumbles, but you can see the smile hidden underneath. “Come on, let’s go settle these guys in, and then we can get ready for dinner.”
