“We’re proud of you.”
I turn to my dad and the words that I’ve been aching to hear. “You’re proud of me?”
He nods. “Very proud of you. Not just for what you did at the wedding, but your business and your kindness. You’re a true example of a good person, Afton. Your priorities are lined up as they should be.”
He holds out a hand to tap each finger. “You’re honest. You’re courageous. You’re generous. You’re creative, and you’re a teacher.”
I smile. “I’m not a teacher. Mom’s the teacher.”
My mom steps closer to me. “You’re the greatest teacher we’ve ever known. You taught us to reprioritize our lives.”
“How so?”
They share a smile and a wink with one another before turning back to face me. “We quit all the country clubs, told those people what we really thought of them, and we’re selling the penthouse and the summerhouse to hit the road.”
I can’t tell if they’re having a slightly past midlife crisis or if they are serious.
“You look shocked.” My dad pats my shoulder. “Do you think we enjoy hanging out with those people? They’re judgmental and catty.”
“They are your friends,” I point out.
“Were,” my mom corrects me. “We’re tired of trying to live up to their standards. It’s time for us to be who we want to be.”
“Who is that?” I question with a grin on my lips.
“Two people who are madly in love with each other and life.” They wrap their arms around each other as my dad continues his speech, “and who couldn’t be prouder of their daughter and son.”
I stare at them, stunned by their admission and excited for their future.
“We’ve made so many mistakes.” My dad leans his head against my mom’s shoulder. “Before your wedding day and after. Our time away has taught us what really matters.”
I’m tempted to bring up every time their words or actions have hurt me, but this is a fresh start. Luke’s words about only looking forward ring in my ears.
We can’t erase anything that’s happened before today. We can only learn from it.
“Tell us what you’ve been up to.” My mom wiggles her brows. “Is there anything new and exciting that you want to tell us?”
I trust Nelson enough to know that he wouldn’t have told my parents about Luke. I want them to know even though I can’t say for certain how they’ll react.
“Do you remember the man that ran into the church?”
“That good-looking hunk of a man who interrupted your wedding?” My mom asks with a glint in her eye.
My dad laughs. “I admit. That boy was a looker.”
I take a deep breath and smile. “I think I’ve fallen in love with him.”
They both hoot and holler, screaming words of encouragement about fate and possibilities. I stand in place, letting them shower me with kisses before taking me in for another tight embrace.
“Imagine what our grandchildren will say, Albert, when we tell them that their dad broke up their mom’s wedding just in time to steal her heart.”
I laugh at my mom’s words. “We’re not even close to the grandchildren stage yet.”
“In due time,” my dad kisses my cheek. “It will all happen in due time.”
Chapter 42
Afton
There is only one thing missing in my life right now.
Luke Jones.
Everyone I love is gathered around the dining room table in Joel and Nelson’s home. I did the cooking. I prepared a light summer meal that we could enjoy together as a family.
Nelson was just as surprised as I was when my parents showed up on his doorstep after work. I kept them busy in my apartment until then. My dad placed the last piece of the puzzle he dropped off months ago.
I snapped a picture of it and sent it to Luke.
His response was a thumbs-up.
“I’m up for a pretty big part,” Joel announces as he rises to his feet with a wineglass in his hand.
Nelson picks up his to join in his husband’s toast. I do the same, as do my parents.
“Afton isn’t even aware that I was called back for a second audition,” Joel tosses me a smirk.
I leave him to gloat as I catch my brother’s eye and smile.
“I took that on, and I’m proud to say I blew them away.” He blows a breath of air out from between pouted lips.
My dad takes to his feet too. “To our future Oscar winner.”
We all stand to raise our glasses, but Nelson clears his throat. “Joel, tell them.”
“You got it,” I blurt out. “Did they offer you the part?”
Nodding, he sighs. “Not officially, but my agent says from what he’s heard, it’s mine if I want it.”
“Oh, dear.” My mom bursts into tears. “It’s good news all around today. Coming home was the best decision we could have made, Albert.”
“Wait.” Joel reaches a hand toward my brother. “I’ve decided to turn it down.”