“Just make a note and put it on the table so we can tell London when he gets back,” I tell her.
“I will. You must be Afton.” Ever shakes his hand.
“I am. I heard about your husband.”
Ever giggles, rubbing her tummy. “He’s not as bad as my dad says he is.”
“No, he’s worse,” Dayton jokes, joining us with Timber at his side.
“Afton, this is my other daughter, Timber, and her husband, Dayton.”
“Nice to meet you. I mean, I’ve watched you on TV, but that doesn’t count as knowing you. Okay, I’ll shut up now.” Afton makes a zipping motion across his lips, trying to hide a grin—and failing.
“Memphis,” I call him over.
“Sal, that girl needs to go,” Memphis yells at my brother-in-law.
We all just laugh.
“Some people,” he mumbles when he joins us, kissing Ever’s head.
“Memphis, this is Afton.”
“Holy shit,” Memphis shouts. “You’re the rookie hockey player everyone has been talking about.”
“I am,” he admits, “but I try to keep that on the down low.”
“It’s an honor to meet you.” Memphis gushes like a teenage boy.
“Honey, you’re drooling.” Ever snorts.
“Shush.” Memphis turns and hisses at her.
“I’m actually honored to meet you,” Afton says.
“He passes,” Memphis shouts at Sal, who just flips him off.
Afton smiles at Memphis. “Maybe someday we could check out the ice rink in Atlanta and I could teach you some moves.”
“Fuck, yeah.” He pumps his fist in the air.
“I’m guessing that if we have a son, he might be a hockey player if he’s not a fighter.” Ever titters.
“I’m okay with that.” Memphis laughs. “Though, we’ll let him or her decide.”
“Of course,” Ever agrees.
“When are you due?”
“Couple more months, Ever says, glancing at her swollen belly for a moment. “I want her out of me.”
“How do you feel about being a grandpa, Shane?” Afton asks.
“I’m excited, since I’m young enough to hang out with them when they get older.”
“You’ll be a great grandpa,” Snow chimes in, “and Ever will be a great mom.”
“Again, what am I? Chopped liver?” Memphis mock-pouts.