Page 55 of Stopping Short

“Oh, that sounds so fun.” I roll my eyes. “Scott and Lindsey will be there?” I arch a brow.

“Of course. So will Mason and Kelsey.” Dad’s grin transforms into a smirk.

“I’m sure Jesse and Faith will make an appearance. After all, they don’t get to see their nephew often enough.” Mason winks at us, making me groan.

“Why do I feel like an exhibit on display? Are you all so old and have such boring lives that my love life needs to be on full display for you to talk about?”

“Pretty much.” Mason chuckles. “We need some entertainment in our lives. We’ve been taking bets for years about who you’d end up with, Harper… I think someone owes me some money.” He rubs his hands together with a devilish grin.

Chapter 32

Jackson

“Hey, Mom.” I wrap her in a hug and close my eyes. I don’t get to see her often enough and I really miss her. She’s the best mom in the world and I don’t know what I would’ve done without her.

“Jacks,” she whispers, hugging me a little tighter. “It’s good to see you, sweetie.”

“You too. We need to be better about getting together.”

“Well, I understand how busy your season is.”

“Yeah… but it doesn’t matter. I can always make time for you.” I kiss the top of her head, making her roll her eyes.

As soon as I was taller than her, I started doing things like kissing her forehead or the top of her head. Anything to make sure she was well aware I was the tall person in this relationship. She used to get mad, but now I think she secretly loves it.

Mom releases me, but Dad pulls me into his arms immediately. He might not be my biological dad, but he’s the best man I’ve ever met. He stepped into my life during one of the lowest points I’ve ever been at and he didn’t hesitate to help me through it. I owe him so much, I know I’ll never be able to repay him for the kindness he showed me and Mom.

“Man, you and little Harper,” Dad teases, the smile clear in his voice.

“Are you surprised?”

“Not at all,” he laughs as he takes a step back and smiles at us. “If anything, I'm surprised it took this long.”

He opens his arms and Harper doesn’t hesitate to give him a hug. He whispers something in her ear and she lets her head fall back as her beautiful laughter fills the air. I don’t know what he said, but they’ve always had an amazing relationship.

Even when Harper was in a bad mood, Dad could always get her laughing and smiling. I used to watch them and wish I could do that. I’d give almost anything to know I'm what makes Harper happy.

“Dinner’s ready!” Cali calls from the dining room.

We’re quickly ushered around the table and I'm not surprised to find we’re sitting in the center with all eyes on us.

“Well, this isn’t awkward at all,” I mutter under my breath, making Dad snort with laughter.

“Honestly, I feel like you should count your blessings. Everyone else was busy and couldn’t make it tonight. Cali invited everyone.” Maddox grins as he lifts his beer to his lips and takes a sip.

“Everyone?” Harper stares at her parents with wide eyes.

“The entire group. Summer and Jake had something with their kids, Derek and Hope are on vacation, and Faith and Jesse got called into work for an emergency.” He shrugs.

“I’ve never been so thankful in my life,” Harper mutters under her breath, only loud enough for me to hear her.

“I know, right?” I shake my head. If the other three couples were here, this would be ten times worse. They all feed off of each other and the comments would be out of control. We’d probably end up leaving early and upsetting some people.

Mason stands and says the prayer, then Cali, Kelsey, and Mom start bringing out big trays of food. There are so many different kinds of meat, salads, and side dishes.

“What is all of this?” I ask as my gaze roams over all of it. I’m starving. To be honest, I'm always hungry, especially during the season, and all of this looks amazing.

“I’ve been smoking meat all day.” Mason grins. “I assume you aren’t afraid of a little protein and I wasn’t sure exactly what type of foods you allow yourself to eat during the season. Meat and protein seemed like a safe option.”