“I cheered, you little—”
“Engaged?” shrieks Lydia. “I want to see the ring! Elise! Let me see it!”
“We’re still naked,” I yell back, way too loud. “Sorry.”
Nate groans.
“Oh my God, ew.” Lydia’s muffled, like she covered her mouth in horror. A beat passes. “But, like, please put clothes on. I have to see how happy you look.”
24
GABRIEL
It’s justpast sunrise on brunch day, and I’ve been lying awake next to a sleeping Elise.
When I bought the brownstone, one of the contractors who worked on renovations suggested a number of upgrades, including enhanced soundproofing. It would have involved taking the space down to the studs. Nothing original that the previous owners had preserved over the years would survive the process.
I felt taken down to the studs, too. Nothing original to Gabriel Hill was left. I couldn’t bear to do that to my house.
That was the right decision. A bird sings from its nest in the bricks of the building across the alley. Cars hum down the street, followed by a rumbling truck. The breeze swells, then stills.
Elise breathes, soft and even, as our bedroom gradually gets brighter.
This is how Christmas morning used to feel. The day is an unwrapped gift. I used to think the anticipation was the best part. It is fucking delicious to rest here in the quiet of the morning, knowing that my new family is here and safe, but it’s not better than when they all wake up and we can have Saturday together
My phone buzzes on the bedside table. I snatch it up, pulling at my broken ribs—ouch, fuck—and swipe to see the text.
Mason:You up?
Gabriel:Yes? Did you move brunch to dawn?
Mason:I have something to show you
Gabriel:You are so fucking ominous
Mason:Can you meet me?
Gabriel:Where?
Mason:Central Park. Across from my place. There’s a basket
I typeoutwhat the fuckand delete it.
Gabriel:On my way!
Boxers.Socks. Jeans. Shirt. Hoodie. My hair looks ridiculous. Whatever. I brush my teeth and go back to the bed, where Elise is stirring. Her engagement ring sparkles on the pillow near her face.
“Too early,” she whines, and I almost climb back into bed and fuck her, because she only ever whines like that when she’s just waking up or during sex. It’s too hot for words in addition to being a sweet secret, just for me.
Speaking of secrets…
I lean down and let my lips hover just below her ear. “What’s in the buttercream frosting?”
I’ve been wondering about it since I ate those buttercream roses. It wasn’t like any other frosting I’ve had, and I want it. I want this secret for me, to keep in my pocket because I love her.
“Shhh.” A tiny frown. “Almond. Don’t tell.”
“I would never. I’m going to meet Mason. I’ll come back and get you guys for brunch. Go back to sleep.”