Coming Home For Her

“Got someone I want you to meet.” I nod toward the dance floor, and she follows me out. “Peter.” I call his name. He looks over at me, his brows raising. “Got someone for you.” I don’t wait to see what happens. I snag Carey by the wrist, pulling her to me.

“What are you doing?”

“Stealing the next dance.”

She huffs a laugh. “What about the blonde?”

“You’re the only girl I see.” I want to lean down and kiss her. She gazes up at me, her eyes dropping to my mouth. How much longer do we have to stay here? “Why is he here?”

She shrugs. “I forgot, and he’s a nice guy. We work together.” She presses herself into me. “There is nothing there.” She smiles up at me. “You’re the only one I want, but I do have to say this jealousy thing is a little hot.”

“Good, because I don’t think it’s going away anytime soon.” I spin her around and dip her, making her laugh. When I bring her back to her feet, it doesn't go unnoticed. Everyone is looking at us. Luckily Carey doesn't notice.

We spend the rest of the night dancing, drinking and eating. I can’t remember the last time I’ve relaxed this much and enjoyed myself. I even start to like Peter. Only a little bit, but it’s something. It’s hard for me to wrap my mind around someone not wanting Carey, but it doesn't take me long to realize that Carey and Barbie Blonde are far from his type, but I keep that shit to myself.

Carey gasps when I pull her into my lap after Angel and Logan do their send-off. “They’re gone.” I nibble her neck.

“But everyone else isn't.” She doesn't try to jump away. In fact, she leans more into me. “I’m going to tell Angel tomorrow when she calls. I feel bad having kept it a secret this long.”

“She’ll understand.”

“I know. But you’re still her brother. I’m sure everyone might worry this could end badly.”

“It’s never ending.” I tighten my hold on her, making her roll her eyes at me, but she’s smiling.

“Is there something we should talk about here?” I look up to see Carey’s dads. Reese and Hank join us at the table.

“I was thinking we could have that discussion over dinner tomorrow night?” I suggest. Carey bites her bottom lip, her eyes bouncing between her dads. Her cheeks turn as pink as her dress.

“You finally broke.” Reese smirks, his hand coming down on Hank’s shoulder. “You owe me a foot rub.”

“You couldn't have held out till summer.” Hank shakes his head.

“You know already?” Carey finally finds her voice.

“The boy is always worried about the security of our house,” Reese says.

“I want everyone to be safe.” He gives me a look like he’s not buying it.

“He’s always asking about you,” Hank adds.

“Small talk,” I defend. Shit I am terrible at hiding how I feel, clearly. Except from Carey, it seems. She giggles.

“I’m not going to be home tonight,” she tells them when she gets her laughter under control.

“You’re a grown woman.” They both stand. Carey slips off my lap to give them hugs. I stand with them to shake their hands, but they both pull me in for hugs.

“Tomorrow,” they remind us before they head off. Carey melts into my side.

“That was easy enough.” She tilts her head back to look up at me. I do what I’ve been wanting to do all damn day. I kiss her, not giving a fuck who sees. I’ve waited long enough, and the wait is over. She’s mine, and I want everyone to know it. For the first time in years I finally feel whole again.

16

Carey

I lie with my head resting on Beau’s chest. I never knew I could be this at peace. It’s five in the morning, and I’m wide awake. I should still be sleeping. We got home late after the wedding reception and then Beau kept me up for another couple hours. I had no idea sex could be like this. I wonder if it’s this good for everyone.

To me there is this deep connection. I have no doubt that Beau had wanted me for a long time before I even had a clue. I can see it in his eyes when he makes love to me. The way he touches me like he never wants to let me go. As if he’s been waiting an eternity for the chance to love me.

His body jerks under mine, and he moans my name. I look up at his face as I try to soothe him with my hand. It’s not a moan of pleasure. I can see the pain on his face.

“Carey.” My name comes out strangled this time. I kiss his chest, hoping that me being this close to him will chase away whatever is causing his distress.