“I’m home.” He chuckles, kissing Snow’s hair.
“You weren’t supposed to be home for another hour or so,” Afton says. “We were going to make you brownies.”
“I got Ariel to spring me early,” he replies, a wide grin stretching across his face.
Ariel and Brick poke their heads around the corner. “Sorry,” she says. “He couldn’t wait any longer.”
“That’s okay,” I say, waving them in. “We could use the help.”
“I’m always glad to help.” Ariel chuckles.
“You’re a damn liar. You just want to snack. You’re as bad as Axel.” Snow giggles.
“You’re right,” Ariel grins, “but today I’m really going to help. We finally get to see a finale.”
“So exciting,” Snow agrees.
“Can we move the vegetables to the big table?” I ask.
“Yeah, I can lay out lettuce for burgers and shred enough for salad.” Snow moves off with Ariel.
“What can I do?” London asks nervously. He looks like he feels out of place, even though he belongs here.
“Kiss me,” I say.
He does, and it’s like coming home.
“Can’t wait for tonight.” Afton grins mischievously.
“What?” London swivels his gaze between the two of us.
“We have a surprise for you.” Clutching his face, I kiss him again. It’s been too damn long.
A little breathless, he pulls away, and says, “Can’t wait. But really, what can I do?”
“Will you season the steaks and hamburgers? Afton will help do the lamb and pork,” I tell him as I start mixing the ingredients for the cake.
“Sure thing.” He leans in and kisses me one more time.
I was so confused in the beginning and embarrassed as to what people would think about our little relationship circle. And when Afton and I have gone out with Snow—we have gotten judged a few times. Looks, stares, comments. We’ve all learned to take them in stride.
But I couldn’t care less. It works for me, and it works for us.