Page 161 of Unraveling Rain
He nods toward Ruin, and my sister blushes.
“I’d also like to give thanks for another year of health—for me and everyone in our families. It seems like our family grew a lot this year, and I’m grateful you’re all such wonderful people—especially you, Rain. From the moment I saw you back in the Cape, I knew you were one of a kind, and I thank the heavens my grandson found you.”
My eyes sting as emotion wells up. This is one of the best Thanksgivings I’ve ever had.
“Finally, I’d like everyone to take a moment and give thanks for something good that happened this year.”
We all bow our heads. I close my eyes, and the first image that forms is Xander and me hiking through the mountains over the summer.
He’s my biggest blessing.
Satisfied with his speech, Gramps takes a seat, and Granny pats his hand excitedly. I can’t hear what she says, but knowingher, she’s probably singing his praises for that heartfelt Thanksgiving toast.
“Are you happy we’re all here?” Ruin asks, settling in beside me.
“I was so happy I got to see you Tuesday and spend time with you,” I say. “But when I left Asheville, it felt like a crater opened in my chest. I don’t know how people live away from their families. I felt like I was dying without you all.”
Ruin smiles as she squeezes my hand. “Your boyfriend is very observant. Gio helped with bringing Granny and Mama on the helicopter while the rest of us drove,” she says. “But Xander was the one who found this place and arranged everything. He also got a box for tomorrow’s game so the entire family can go watch him play.”
She leans in, eyes sparkling. “He’s a keeper, Raindrop.”
We both stomp our feet under the table, just like we used to when we were little and couldn’t contain our excitement.
He really is a keeper. I’ll make sure to thank him properly tonight.
Everyone eats and drinks to their heart’s content, laughter and conversation flowing across the table.
Xander’s family blends seamlessly with mine—kind, warm, and ready to joke around in good fun.
The moment I catch Miles untying his tie, I lose it, laughter spilling out before I can stop it. When everyone else notices, the laugh spreads around the room like wildfire.
“I’m sorry, everyone,” Miles says as he stands to refill his plate—for the fourth time. “But I needed a little bit more wiggle room, and the tie was in the way.”
That earns a round of chuckles. I bite back a grin as River immediately starts fumbling with his tie, failing miserably. His eyes lock on Xander.
“Well,” Miles says with a shit-eating grin, “I thought Xander was going to propose to Rain or something and wanted us to look presentable for the pictures. But now I’m not so sure he’s proposing today.”
My eyes widen like saucers.
Leave it to my brother to stir shit up.
Xander clears his throat and stands. Everyone looks at him like he’s the chosen one. And even though I don’t think he’s proposing today, adrenaline rushes through my veins all the same.
“You’re right, Miles,” he says. “Dressing up in formal clothes isn’t exactly traditional Thanksgiving attire, but I wanted to take the opportunity—with our families together—to celebrate Rain and all of her accomplishments.
“She’s flourished since taking over management of the Rustic Spoon remotely. Her creativity in the kitchen has skyrocketed, and I just wanted to show her how in awe I am of her and everything she does.”
He glances atme, voice steady.
“To me, the best way to honor someone is to throw a party for the history books. There’s nothing in this world I wouldn’t do to see her smile every single day of our lives.”
I thought he just wanted to be fancy. But of course, his meaning ran deeper.
I stand, and Xander wraps his arms around my waist. He leans in to whisper in my ear.
“You are a truly amazing woman, Rain MacAllister. I’m so incredibly thankful for you.”
A tear runs down my cheek as I hug him.
