Page 126 of You Fall First

Moves like this are probably enough to confirm our relationship in Oliver’s eyes. Just a few tiny gestures throughout the night, so he doesn’t ask any awkward questions—in public—when we go through the buffet line.

This bare minimum contact with Jo is nowhere near enough for me, though. Certainly not a kiss like the one we shared in the reception hall. But at least it’s something. And I’m going to enjoy each moment of contact as much as I can.

I maneuver myself close behind her, then around her, and next to her, leaning in to side-hug someone like Loren or high-five someone else like Bridger. From inside our circle, I’m simply being friendly in perhaps tighter quarters than necessary, but still. Nothing unusual.

To Oliver, however, I must look like a man who can’t keep his hands off Jo.

At the same time, the small crowd gathered around us is showering my sister with support.

“Rowan can’t stop talking about Dutton,” Kendal says. She nods toward Tim, who’s following the kids around the lobby.

“You’re going to love living in Harvest Hollow,” Bridger says.

“And Havenwood’s a great place to work,” Loren adds.

Paige offers them a tentative smile. “Everyone’s been so kind.”

“Especially the night crew,” I tell her, leaning over Jo’s shoulder.

The scent of Jo’s skin is intoxicating.

Hello, girlfriend.

“I haven’t met any of the night shift yet,” Paige says.

Her eyes are tired, and I shoot her an encouraging smile. “Well, they’re all going to love you.”

“I’m your sister,” she smirks. “You’re hardly objective.”

“I’m taking our kids to the playroom now,” Kendal says.

Paige blinks. “They have a playroom?”

“Yeah, Havenwood’s great about stuff like that,” I say. “Kids need a safe space when their families are visiting.”

“I can bring Dutton too, if you want,” Kendal offers.

“Now that you’re living here,” I say, “you might as well let him make friends.”

“Okay,” Paige hedges.

“Hey, bud.” I motion for Dutton to come over. “You want to go to the playroom with Rowan and Wally?”

“Yes, yes, yes!” He jumps up and down, flopping Bugs around by one ear.

“For a little while,” Paige says.

As Kendal starts down the hall with the kids, Jo puts a hand on my elbow. “I’ll take Paige to the playroom, too. That way, she can see the place and stick around with Dutton until they’re both comfortable.”

“Yes, please.” Paige lets out a breath, her shoulders settling.

Right.

I should’ve realized my sister wouldn’t want to be separated from Dutton so soon, especially at an unfamiliar location, with virtual strangers.

Thankfully, Jo caught on to her hesitation.

“The playroom’s down this way,” she says, leading Paige away. Then she glances back over her shoulder. “You coming, Uncle Noah?”