Page 82 of Fast Currents
“Prepare yourself, Robertson. It’s about to get real.”
He tangled my fingers in his, drawing my attention away from my phone. “It’s always been real for me.”
He said it with such sincerity, rubbing a finger over my ring like a magic lamp granting him his heart’s desire. My heart clenched.
“Marry me,” I said softly.
His eyes danced, humor twinkling in his deep brown gaze. “You can keep asking, but I already said yes, and I’m still winning.”
“It’s not a competition,” I groused, letting his teasing relax my nerves. This was why we worked so well together. He knew just how to talk me down and wind me up.
His smile turned lopsided, pure mischief. “It is. And again.” He pointed both thumbs at himself. “Winning.” His eyes softened. “Mostly because I can’t wait to be your husband.” His sweet words reached into my chest and squeezed.
“I love you.”
“I love you too.” He gestured to my phone. “Now, quit stalling. I need to charm my future in-laws.”
My mom picked up after the first ring, my dad and siblings smooshed into the frame.
“Happy Thanksgiving!” they shouted. “We miss you, Lucy.”
“Happy Thanksgiving. I love you and miss you too.”
“Who’s the handsome guy snuggled up next to you?” my mom asked with faux innocence.
I’d already told them about Clay. That we were dating. That I’d moved in. There was only one last bit of news to share.
“This is Clay Robertson… my fiancé.”
The broad grins from my mom and dad washed away the last of the concern I had about telling them. That they’d call it too fast. That they’d question if I was ready.
“That’s wonderful news. Lucy’s told us all about you. We can’t wait to visit and spend time together in person,” my mom said enthusiastically.
My dad, not quite as verbose, simply said, “Nice to meet you, Clay.”
My brother and sister added their congratulations, and we chatted for a few minutes, catching up on family news. My brother had started a new job and had a new boyfriend. Theyweren’t at the holidays together phase, but the light in Marcus’s eyes when he spoke about his new man was promising. My sister and her husband had announced their pregnancy in the summer. I was looking forward to a mini baby shower for them at Christmas.
Clay gathered me in his arms after our call ended, expression relaxed. “Well, Luce. We did it. We conquered Thanksgiving.”
I chuckled. “Yeah, we did.” I wreathed my arms around his neck. “How much longer before your parents come back?”
“Probably not long enough,” he said ruefully, dropping a quick kiss on my mouth.
The rest of the day passed in a haze of puzzles, board games, and leftovers. Now that I didn’t have the weight of sharing our engagement hanging over my head, it was easier to relax with Clay’s parents.
On Friday, Clay and I dropped his folks off at the ferry dock, exchanging hugs.
“We won’t see you at Christmas, but we’ll be back this spring for a visit,” his mom promised. She whispered, “I wasn’t sure at first, but I think you’re perfect for him. Welcome to the family, dear.”
Stunned, I didn’t know what to say, woodenly accepting Carl’s hug before they waved, suitcases trailing behind them, as they walked onto the ferry.
Clay took my hand in his, swinging our clasped hands gently. “Know what I’m thankful for today?”
I shook my head.
He kissed our entwined fingers. “Four hours of alone time before we meet the gang for Friendsgiving.” He grinned at me. “Race you to the truck?”
Laughing, he took off, me fast on his heels.
