Page 92 of Rumor Has It

“Rumor, this is my parents, Gwen and Anderson. Most people call him Andy.” I hold my breath, knowing they see everything in Rumor that I do. She’s her mother, and so much like mine.

Rumor holds her hand, the sweetest smile on her face. “It’s good to meet you.”

“A pleasure, Rumor.” My dad takes her hand, charming as always. “Please call me Andy.”

Mom is a little more emotional. “Oh gracious. She’s beautiful, Mackenzie!” She takes Rumor’s hand, looking from me to the little girl we’ve all wondered about all these years. “You have your mother’s smile, and your eyes are breathtaking.”

“I’ve always told her, eyes like those are hauntingly beautiful.” Mackenzie’s gaze flickers to mine as she grasps my hand.

Mom nods, wiping her own. “I couldn’t agree more. She’s perfect.” She looks from Mackenzie to me.

“Folks, we have all kinds of food. Gwen’s been cooking everything because our ‘missing in action’ son didn’t let her know what to fix.” Dad steps to the side, inviting us in.

I shake my head. “Dad jokes? Not a good look, buddy.”

“At least I know where you got yours from.” Mackenzie smirks.

I lock eyes with her, mumbling. “Should I explain why I’ve been missing? Ya know, all that action I’ve been getting?”

“Sure”—she half shrugs—“what do I care?”

I do a double take. “You’re evil.”

“Moi?” She gawks with a twinkle in her eyes.

I grip her hand and embrace her as the others walk through the house. Her hands slip around my neck, offering a questioning gaze. Transfixed, I’m lost for words. Her lips part slightly, beckoning to me relentlessly.

Lowering my head, I press my lips to hers. No one can truly understand what we’ve been through, but standing here now, we both realize we have so much to lose. I’m overcome with a lighthearted feeling, knowing somehow, we won’t this time.

“Ughhh, they’re kissing again!” Rumor yells through the house. “People, I need food! You can’t eat if your mouths are always touching.”

“Yeah, Boone! Let the girl breathe!” Dad pops around the corner with a cheesy grin.

I hold my hands out watching Mackenzie turn red. “She attacked me! I couldn’t hold her off!”

“What? You did not just say that!” She slaps at me before storming away.

I drop my head, trying to hide my laughter. “Sorry.”

“You’re going to be grounded forever.” Rumor bobs her head.

“In that case, since I’m already in trouble”—I widen my eyes—“I think we should have a tickle fight!” I scream, shutting the door behind me as I chase after her.

Mackenzie and my mom jump out of the way as I run Rumor down, tossing her over my shoulder. My dad joins us, watching us as we wrestle, cheering Rumor on. I have no doubt if he were feeling better, he’d down here with us.

We settle in at the dining room table for dinner. My parents continue to dote on Rumor and Mackenzie, their words falling on deaf ears when it comes to Mackenzie.

“What is happening here? Am I no longer the favorite?” I sulk, and Rumor covers her mouth, snickering.

“No, never!” Dad chuckles. “You were never the favorite to begin with, son.”

Mackenzie bursts into laughter, shooting the mouthful of water she had across the table. I pat her on the back, trying to keep her from choking.

“You alright there, Kenzie?”

She nods. “I’m so sorry. That was the most hilarious comeback! Epic even!”

“Oh, I see. All y’all got jokes. Fine, I’ll go find a new family.” I huff, scooting back my chair as I start to stand to make a grand exit. Suddenly, Rumor has her arms wrapped around me, crying.