'Tis The Season

“Yes, I’m just nervous.”

I smile. “What’s the worst Warren could do?”

She grimaces. “I don’t want to think about it.”

“He’s a regular old cop, not a member of the SWAT team, right?” I say, suddenly nervous.

Her silence fills the room.

“Right?”

She laughs, and I scowl. “That was mean.”

“I figured I’d break the ice.”

“I’m not sure you accomplished that.”

Knock, knock. “He’s here.” She pushes herself off the couch and waddles to the door.

I smile, enjoying the sway of her body. It’s her birthday. We’re celebrating with dinner, followed by cake and presents. I know she misses her parents, but their berating and nagging is wearing her down. Firmly sided with Preston, they sing his praises and pick at her every chance they get. I’ve bitten my tongue about it since it wasn’t my place before. Now, as her official boyfriend, it’s only a matter of time before I speak out.

“Warren.” She throws her arms around the waist of the giant with similar shaped and colored eyes.

“Faye! Wow, you look bi—”

“Beautiful,” I interject, shaking my head as I smile.

Faye punches her brother in his stomach playfully, and he hunches over. “Ouch.”

“That wasn’t what you were going to say. Luckily, James saved your ass. James, my brother, Warren, the thoughtful. Warren, my boyfriend, James.”

We both grin like school kids. It feels good to say the labels out loud.

“Nice to meet you.” I stick my hand out for him to shake.

“Likewise. I wasn’t aware the two of you were dating,” Warren says, never taking his eyes off me as he shakes my hand.

“It’s a recent development,” I admit. I can deal with a little interrogation.

“Hmm.”

“Stop.” Faye slaps his arm. “At least get inside and comfortable before you start grilling him.”

“Jeez, Faye. You’re bordering on abusive here.”

“Psh. You can take it.”

“You’re lucky it’s your birthday,” Warren growls more teddy bear than grizzly. “How’s my niece?”

“Growing fast, as you mentioned.”

“I didn’t ...”

She stares at him, and he looks away. “But healthy and on track.”

“She’ll be here before you know it,” Warren says.

“I know.” Her voice wavers.