Page 56 of Holiday Hook Up

“This life.” He laughed at himself for how corny he sounded making the classic movie reference.

“That it is,” she agreed, taking a sip of her wine.

“You having a good time tonight?”

She nodded and leaned in. “I am. You know, it’s been great being a part of this.”

“My wonderful life?”

She giggled. “Yeah, that, and this inner circle.” She motioned to all their friends around them.

He laughed. She was right. The group had become a supportive inner circle in the past year, and he was happy they’d made room for her to join. “Me, too.” He raised his beer to her wine glass. “Cheers to this inner circle.”

“Cheers.”

He would have liked to keep the private celebration going, but Emma clapped her hands for their attention.

“So, you all are probably wondering what kind of announcement I’m about to make.”

“It’s a baby, isn’t it?” Caitlin asked, and Josh pulled her into a bear hug.

“Shhh . . .” Josh nuzzled his chin into her shoulder. “You don’t have to answer that, Em.”

Emma chuckled and reached for Jason’s hand. “We hate to disappoint you, Caitlin, but no. I’m not pregnant.”

“Are you finally engaged?” Abby asked, pulling Emma’s hand out of Jason’s. “You are, aren’t you? Where’s the ring?”

Emma moved her hand away, her gaze fixed on Bethany. “We’re not engaged . . . yet.”

Adam eyed Emma. Why was she now staring at Bethany? Did LB already know something?

Emma continued, “So, as all of you know, I’ve been waiting for my father to return to Buttermilk Falls for quite some time . . .” She paused and Jason put his hand around her shoulder.

“It’s okay, Baby,” he said.

“I’ve found him.” Emma paused, adding, “Um . . . I mean, Jason found him.”

Abby was the first to speak. “Oh, my God, Emma! Is he in Buttermilk Falls? Was he on the bus?”

“No. He’s living in a small town in Texas called Sweet Ridge. Jason and I are flying there in the morning.”

“You’re leaving tomorrow? Does he know you’re coming? How long will you be there?” Abby fired off one question after another.

“Yes. He doesn’t, and I’m not sure.” Emma turned to Abby, taking her hand. “I don’t want you to worry about the bakery. I’ve talked to my mom. She’s going to come out of retirement and run it while I’m gone.”

Abby shook her head. “Emma, why didn’t you tell me? You know I’d step in.”

“I know, but you’ve got all your catering gigs.” She smiled at her cousin. “And I don’t want you to overexert yourself.”

Abby waved her off. “I wouldn’t be. We can talk to Aunt Sheila. I’ll take the morning

shifts.”

“But isn’t that when you feel the worst?” Emma put her hand over her mouth. “I’m sorry.”

“You’ve got morning sickness. I knew one of you was pregnant!” Caitlin wiggled her finger at Abby. “It’s you again, isn’t it?”

Abby threw her hands up in the air. “Fine. I’m having a baby.”

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