One
Xavier
“Congratulations!”
A smile spread across Xavier Valentine’s mouth as he paused at the entryway of his parents’ three-story home.
In front of him, a room full of his melanated family was spread from one end to the other with champagne glasses in one hand while the other lifted in the air.
Broad smiles greeted him, and they were dressed impeccably though their tailored attire and fashion brands were typical for their everyday wardrobe.
His father, Leslie Valentine, and five brothers were the biggest people in the room. Most were over six feet five inches in height, athletic builds, solid physiques, broad shoulders, bearded strong structural jawlines, and large hands and feet. Sprinkled between them, his mother and their wives stood at their sides, elation in their expressions and pride on their faces.
Xavier was happy for their happiness; he was also confused.
“I’m missing something, I’m sure of it,” he said.
Laughter cajoled throughout the space, and his mother, Bridgette Valentine, spoke up—her freshly dyed black hair bouncing as she glanced at them all. “I told you all he wouldn’t have a clue when he walked through the door.”
A few of them shook their heads, and his brother, Hunter, approached him with a fedora on his head and an offer of champagne.
“Brother, you just landed the biggest sports contract in the last decade.” Hunter paused in front of Xavier, and Xavier took the glass out of his hands. “We’ve gathered here today to celebrate you.”
Xavier’s smile grew wider, and he nodded. “Of course you have, because I have the best family in the world.” He lifted his glass. “Here’s to you all. Thank you immensely.”
“This is what family is for. Congratulations to the best damn sports agent in the country.” Hunter opened his palm, and they slapped hands, drawing each other in as the others advanced.
“I’d say the best in the world,” Lance said, slapping hands with Xavier next. “But that’s just me.”
Xavier guffawed, drawing him in then out. “Do you have to challenge Hunter on everything?”
“Everything,” he emphasized.
Hunter shook his head and drank his champagne. “Still making up for your shortcomings, I see.”
Lance’s brows furrowed at Hunter. “You wish.” He pointed at Hunter’s empty glass. “It took you long enough to finish that first one. But I understand since you’re getting older. Can’t drink as much as us young men.”
Hunter’s smile brightened, and he laughed uncontrollably as Lance smirked. As much as the two hounded each other, they knew it was all love, and some jokes were funnier than others.
Hunter’s laughter waned, and he shook his head, looking next to Lance at DeAndre. “This guy.”
“What?” Lance shrugged.
“What?” Hunter mocked. “We’re septuplets—born at the same time, remember?”
“Oh, now we’re born at the same time when it’s convenient for you, but any other time I’m the little brother.”
Hunter nodded. “Yes.”
The room erupted in laughter, and Leslie Valentine, their father, interrupted. “Okay, ha, ha, that’s enough, sons.”
“It’ll never be enough,” Lance whispered, peering at Hunter, smirking, then turning and walking away.
Leslie pulled Xavier in for a hug. “Have I told you how proud I am to be your father?”
Xavier’s face softened. “Only always, and I’m honored to be your son.”
Their arms tightened in an embrace, and they remained there a few moments, squeezing one another.