Page 118 of Perfectly Grumpy

“But let’s not forget who pulled off the surprise upset of the Olympics.” Granny pauses. “The winners of this year’s Family Olympics—by one point—are Lauren and Tate!”

“Told you we’d win,” Tate says, pulling me into a hug. “Superior strategy and teamwork. The math was always in our favor.”

“Not gonna lie,” Uncle Ray says, raising his sweet tea, “I was cheering for you both instead of Bart the whole time.”

“And I think we can all agree this reunion improved considerably after Bart’s departure,” Dad adds. The whole table raises their glasses in agreement.

Granny looks around. “As always, on the last night we shareany big news or life updates before we head our separate ways tomorrow. And I’d like to start by saying how much I appreciate Olivia and Lauren for helping organize this reunion. Your mother would be so proud of you for carrying on a tradition she loved.”

Everybody turns to us as my sister grabs my hand under the table, giving me a quick squeeze.

“And speaking of your mother,” Granny continues, “since Lauren fulfilled the requirements by staying the entire week, the Rose Williamson Memorial Foundation will be sending a check to the animal shelter when we get back.”

Everyone claps, and my eyes automatically find Annie curled up on her pillow, looking perfectly content after a week of being spoiled. She’s safe now—the shelter will stay open, and she’ll find a loving home. But the thought of leaving her behind if I move to Kansas City makes me sad.

I should be celebrating. The shelter’s saved, Mom’s promise fulfilled, and Tate and I made everyone believe we’re a couple. Instead, all I can think about is how many things I’ll be walking away from if things change.

“Jake and I wanted to make an announcement,” Olivia interrupts, glancing at her husband hesitantly. “We found out recently…we’re expecting again.”

Granny practically jumps out of her chair to hug them both, while Uncle Bobby lets out a whistle.

“I can’t wait for another baby in the family!” Aunt Karen says.

“Oh, this is wonderful news,” Aunt Tammy adds, wiping her eyes.

“How does Jake feel about this?” Uncle Ray asks with a grin. “Ready for three under five?”

Jake nods. “I’m excited, but I’ll be honest—the timing’s interesting. I just accepted a promotion that involves more travel. Something we didn’t know about beforehand.”

“Good thing Lauren’s around to help,” Aunt Tammy says, nodding toward me.

“She can’t spend all her time babysitting, now that she has Tate to think about,” Uncle Ray says with a wink.

“We always knew you’d find the right guy eventually,” Aunt Karen says. “Your mother would fully approve of this one.”

I glance down at my plate, suddenly unable to meet anyone’s eyes. Tate’s gaze falls on me, but he doesn’t say anything. He just gives me a quiet smile as his hand finds mine under the table.

Abby looks over at me. “Aren’t you going to tell them, Lauren?”

My stomach clenches as I meet her gaze. “Tell them what?”

“About Kansas City,” she urges.

Now everyone has turned toward me, waiting for an explanation.

“Okay, I guess I have an announcement too.” I take a shaky breath. “I’m interviewing next week for a job—in Kansas City.”

“The NHL?” Uncle Ray asks. “That’s the big leagues, Lauren.”

“We’re so proud of you,” Aunt Karen says. “Your mother always said you’d make it to the top.”

“It’s what you’ve always wanted,” Olivia reminds me.

Tate glances around the table. “No one’s more qualified for the job than Lauren. Kansas City’s lucky to even get an interview with her.”

“That’s right,” Dad agrees. “We always knew this day would come.”

It’s just like Tate said—they love me so much, they’re willing to smile, to accept my dreams even when those dreams take me away from them. Even Granny is smiling. “We’re so proud of you, Lauren.”

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