“That’s what we’re hoping for,” Jacob said.
“Thanks, honey, for spoiling my fun,” Matt said. “Actually, you both did clean up nice. But you better be on your best behavior with my sister, understand?”
He knew better than to get on Matt’s bad side. “We’ve got a fun night planned for her.”
“She told me about the steak dinner in New Mexico,” Jena said. “Sounds wonderful.”
“What?” Matt’s volume rose. “New Mexico?”
“Sweetheart, don’t be a wet blanket,” Jena scolded. “You kn
ow Josh is an excellent pilot.”
“Absolutely no drinking, Josh,” Matt said, still operating in overprotective-brother mode.
“Have I ever had a drink when I have flown you? You know me better than that.”
Matt grinned. “I know. I’m just giving you a hard time.”
“Yes, you are, you big lug,” Jena said. “And you also love having you little sister back so you can be the big brother you always wanted to be.”
“And you’re the one who found Carrie, baby. You’re the best wife in the world.” Matt kissed her. “Come on in, guys.”
“I’ll go get Carrie for you.” Jena rushed up the stairs.
Matt led him and Jacob to the living room.
Sean shook their hands. “Damn, guys. Looking good.”
Jena’s mom and Gary came into the room from the kitchen. Kimmie led the way, carrying her dog Happiness.
“You boys look really handsome tonight,” Janet said.
“Yeah,” Gary said, kissing her on the cheek. “Almost as good as me.”
“Here’s your date, guys.” Jena stood to the side and Carrie walked next to her.
Josh had never seen such a vision of beauty, and for the first time in his life he felt completely tongue-tied. Her long, dark locks fell to her shoulders and her hazel eyes sparkled.
“Aunt Carrie, you look like a princess.” Kimmie ran up to her.
Carrie swept the little girl into her arms. “There’s only one princess in this house, and that’s you, sweetie.”
Finding his voice, he said, “You look gorgeous, Carrie.”
Jacob nodded. “You can say that again. Absolutely stunning.”
Carrie grinned. “And you two look very handsome.”
He took her hand. “Shall we go?”
Janet held up her hand. “Wait. I’ll be right back.”
As she headed back to the kitchen, Gary said, “Don’t look at me. That woman has a mind of her own. I have no idea what she has in mind.”
Janet returned with a camera. “I could’ve taken pictures with my cell phone, but this baby takes the best photos.”
“But, Mom, we’re ready to go,” Carrie said, squeezing his hand and looking at Jacob.