“Thank God for that.”

She laughed. “Although I would like to do things a certain way. You could help me with setting everything up and making sure everyone is on the same page.”

“I think I can handle that.”

“I figured my successful older brother who basically works for himself would be the perfect person to boss people around.”

I eyed her carefully. “Me? Bossy? You must be kidding.”

“You're the one who had the fortitude to go out into the world. I'm sure you can handle some groomsmen and bratty bridesmaids.”

“Ugh, notbratty.”

She laughed. “I promise it'll be a breeze!”

“You're really lucky you're my sister.”

“And why's that?”

“Because I would literally kill for you.”

She smiled warmly and tugged me closer as we leisurely walked toward the doors leading out into the town of Checotah, OK.

I sighed contentedly. “It's good to be home.”

“It's good to have you home.”

“How's everyone been holding up?”

She shrugged. “They're doing as well as they can. Everyone has been stressed out with the wedding and, honestly, same. I'm not really sure what I'm doing.”

“Well, I'm here and we'll figure it out together.”

She beamed. “Thanks, Levon.”

“Of course, little bean.”

“Ugh, that old nickname.”

I guffawed. “It's been a minute. Don't I get a free pass on the cutest nickname in the world?”

“Maybe only three times a week.”

“Wow, only three times? I must be lucky.”

She laughed. “Youmustbe lucky to be my brother.”

“I feel pretty lucky to be your brother.”

“You'll feel even luckier when you get back to the house.”

“Is it all done up for the bridesmaids?”

She chuckled. “Not yet, silly. That's not for another few weeks. I think Mom is going to get things going soon, but I told her not to worry yet.”

“That's fair. You wouldn't want to overwhelm yourself.”

“Well, now that you're here, I feel less overwhelmed.”