Page 70 of Say Something
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“Jess, can you pass the potatoes?” I handed the steaming bowl of mashed potatoes across the table to Bryan. “Thanks.”
“You’re welcome,” I said, taking the gravy from Danny. Our eyes met and we shared a quick, sweet smile. Being there felt so normal, and I was glad we could still be so comfortable with each other, despite the years we missed.
Mom didn’t miss our little exchange, neither did Dad. They both smiled at me and Danny. Mom’s smile was a little watery. She was so happy to have “her kids” back together again, or so she said no less than ten times in the last hour.
“What’s your plan with the boys for the rest of the season, Dan?” My father asked. The guys all paid attention to his response about his team and the playoffs, but I tuned it out, thinking more along the lines of wedding plans.
Danny and I had spoken last night...pillow talk...and decided eloping would be best. We weren’t sure when or where, but we wanted to do something quick and meaningful, and then take a nice vacation somewhere together...a second honeymoon.
“Jess got her first online client,” Danny said, sharing something I’d told him the night before.
“That’s great, Jess,” Karla said. Everyone else followed suit, congratulating me for expanding my practice.
“Thanks, guys. I’m looking forward to having more work. Mr. Smith’s practice might have had the right pace for him, but I need a little bit more. Even if it means virtually consulting on contracts.”
As I took a sip of my wine, my father clinked his fork against his glass and stood up. “I’d just like to say a little something. It’s been a long time since we’ve had a complete, Price family dinner.”
I looked down, an old, familiar feeling of guilt moving through me. Danny put his arm around my shoulder and pulled me into his side. Instantly, my racing thoughts and feelings calmed. He knew just when I needed him.
Dad raised his glass. “I’d like to formally welcome Jess and Danny back home, back to our table.” I wiped a tear, raising my glass with my free hand. “Welcome back to the family, Dan.”
“Thanks, Stewart.” The adults all tapped glasses, and Danny got up and gave my father a hug.
I was right behind him, feeling like a little kid again in my father’s embrace. “Thanks, Dad.”
“We’re so happy you’re home,” he said as he held me. “And we’re so happy the two of you found your way back to each other.”
Still leaning against my Dad, I turned to look at the rest of the family. Mom and Danny were standing in front of one another, my mom’s hands on Danny’s cheeks as they quietly spoke. Melissa and Karla were filling in the kids on what their grandfather’s announcement was about, while Michael and Bryan were finishing their food, seemingly oblivious to the activities around them.
“I’m happy, too, Dad.”
