Dare was playing an oud. I wasn’t sure where the instrument came from, but he seemed to be having a great time playing with them. My parents had disappeared at some point. Right now, Grace danced with Wes and Evan.
The bouncy castle also seemed to be quite popular, especially with the teenagers in attendance.
“Spencer, have you been avoiding me?” Mrs. K came over to me.
“Not at all, it’s just been busy,” I replied. “My father is back.”
“He is. Spencer, I have questions.”
“I might have answers. Walk with me?” I nodded toward a path.
We walked back toward the garden where the cocktail reception had been.
“We didn’t know he was coming. Literally, he was dropped off on the doorstep this afternoon. He remembers his research, but he remembers nothing past leaving for work that morning–including the explosion. Evan told him what happened.” I filled her in.
She squeezed my hand. “I’m so happy that you have him back. Spencer, I know you want answers, but perhaps go easy on him?”
“I will.”
We returned to the party.
“There you are.” Zoie grabbed me and pulled me over to the musicians.
Yes, it was the part of the evening when I played the bouzouki. My mother had brought mine per my request.
Zoie handed me the beautiful stringed instrument that my yiayia had not only given me but taught me to play.
“I suppose that I can play a song for my good doctor–my incredible mate that I am so fortunate to have in my life. She and my equally wonderful pack who have supported me through so much,” I announced.
My publicist looked startled, and I saw her run to get the photographer. I started a song that was one of my yiayia’s favorites, the rest of the band joining in.
People danced, and I saw my pappous take Grace’s hand. I’d given her some living room dance lessons to prepare. My mother and father had returned and joined in. Even Brennan seemed to be having a good time, but one of my aunties had decided it was her job to make sure he had fun. Daphne danced with my friend, whose grilling duties had now finished.
Brennan’s father had even shown up for a bit, without the Queen Mum, which had been surprising.
My heart burst with love for everyone. Yes, this was just what we needed. A nice reason to get together and have a good time.
“Thank you so much for coming,” Grace told the Nakamuras as we made the rounds to greet everyone before sneaking off.
“Your dress is perfect. This was an excellent party,” Yui complemented. “I’m going to need the name of your planner.”
“Of course,” Grace replied.
“Thank you so much for attending, Councilman,” I stated.
Arm in arm, we moved on. The band was still going; the drinks continued to flow, and dessert had been set out.
“We’re going to sneak out,” my mother said with a giggle, arm around my father. “I suppose you’ll be doing the same soon?”
When had I last seen her this happy?
“We will. Will I see you at brunch tomorrow?” I asked.
“Yes,” my father assured me. “I do hope that we can spend time together, soon.”
“I told you, his whole wonderful pack is coming to visit us,” my mother said. “Oh, those little siblings of Grace’s are so cute.”
“They are, I’m glad they came,” Grace replied.
