Yeah, no one could ever be her.
~
With Lily’s hand in my own, we make our way out of the airport. We are heading towards the exit where we’ll catch a taxi to our hotel.
When we round the corner, we’re met with a loud “Surprise!” from Luke and Jessica, who are waiting for us in the arrivals hall.
Luke is wearing a cap and sunglasses, probably trying to hide his identity in the busy airport. His face is probably plastered all over the city, given the excitement over the potential world title being won this weekend.
Jessica is holding a neon pink banner that reads “Pick-up for the lovebirds” and it sends us both into laughter.
Having the conversation with Luke before this weekend turned out to be the best decision. If not, I wouldn’t be able to cradle Lily’s hand in my own, just like now.
Lily told me that Jessica was her wing-woman back in Australia, trying to get my attention.
Lily had all of my attention long before that, and seeing her that evening nearly sent me over the edge, but Luke interrupted us when I was sure I was going to cross that line for the first time.
Seeing Jessica’s excitement about us warms my heart, and the smile Luke is sending my way reassures me that he’s okay with this.
He’s told me so himself, but those worries don’t disappear overnight.
When we reach them, hugs are exchanged, and Jessica is still beaming at us like she’s won the lottery.
“Happiness suits you, man,” Luke says as he gives me a hug.
The girls are already giggling at something, probably eager to get rid of us to have their girl time.
“Thanks, Luke,” I say, feeling the emotion thick in my throat.
I’ve been Luke’s own relationship guru whenever he’s had challenges with Jessica, and knowing I got his support now means a lot.
We make our way out of the airport, the girls going ahead in their own bubble.
I bet Lily is happy to be back in the States for a few days and for the opportunity to catch up with Jessica.
She has her FaceTime calls, but I know for myself that it’s not the same as the real deal.
“Ready to be crowned the new champion?” I ask Luke, knowing the most important weekend of his career is ahead.
“Yeah, and now that everyone is showing up, this title has to be mine,” he says.
His whole family is here for the weekend, but Luke seems content and relaxed.
What will be, will be.
~
“You athletes and your egos, my girls are struggling,” Lily says as she finishes telling Luke and Jessica about her friends and their challenges with their athletes in the assignment they’re doing.
“Not everyone,” I comment, giving her a knowing look, and looking over to Luke.
Two of the men in her life are athletes after all.
“Especially you two,” Jessica cuts in, causing the girls to snicker.
I’m eager to squeeze Lily’s waist, but I’m still getting used to being affectionate with her with Luke around.
He’s been nothing but supportive, but I don’t think he would appreciate me groping his sister in front of him.
