Page 44 of Champagne Nights

After ending the call, I slipped my phone back inside my purse and lightly took hold of Ethan’s arm as he guided me up to the house. It was a beautiful, warm, sunny day and perfect for a family get-together.

I heard footsteps coming from all directions when we stepped inside the door.

“You made it!” a cheerful woman’s voice spoke.

“It’s about time, big brother.”

“Good to see you, son.”

“Everyone, I would like you to meet my friend, Aubrey Callahan. Aubrey, to the right of you, is my sister Lila.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Lila.”

“It’s nice to meet you too, Aubrey. Do you mind if I hug you? We’re a family of huggers.”

I gave her a smile, and we lightly hugged.

“Standing in front of you is my mother, Nancy.”

“Aubrey, you’re gorgeous. Welcome to our home. It’s so good to meet you.” She hugged me tight.

“Thank you. It’s nice to meet you as well.”

“And over to your left is my father, Joe.”

“Nice to meet you, Aubrey.” He hugged me.

“Nice to meet you too.”

Their home felt warm and inviting, with a lemon scent that filtered in the air.

“Come on. Let’s go out on the patio and have some drinks,” Nancy spoke.

I placed my hand on Ethan’s arm as he led me outside.

“There’s a large step out the door,” he spoke.

I stepped down, and he took me to the patio table and pulled out a chair for me.

“Thank you.” I smiled.

“What can I get you to drink?” he asked.

“Whatever you’re having is fine.”

“I’m going to have a beer.”

“A beer sounds good.”

“Really? You drink beer?”

“Yeah. I drink beer.” I grinned.

“Two beers coming right up.”

When Ethan went off to get a couple of beers, Nancy reached over and grabbed my hand.

“You are the first girl Ethan has brought around since?—”

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