Page 84 of Daring Destiny
Astrid’s going to be my wife and I’ll get to fuck her like this for the rest of my life.
We’re buying a house together. We’re building a business. We’ll have a family someday soon.
Who says you can’t have it all?
thirty-five
Astrid
One Month Later
It’ssonicebeingpart of Brennan’s family.
I truly feel like I belong. I love every single one of his brothers. His mom and dad are great. It’s the type of home I wish I grew up in.
As we’ve done for most of this year, Brennan and I are at the McGloughlins for Sunday dinner. Tonight Maureen decided on a coastal theme. In the middle of the table, a massive cedar-plank salmon showpiece is topped with a vibrant salsa of diced mango, red onion, cilantro. She also prepared a creamy Dungeness crab risotto, flecked with leeks and fresh herbs, a platter of grilled asparagus and a skillet of herbed cheddar biscuits.
I peeked in the kitchen before we sat down because I’ve had a crazy sweet tooth for the past couple of weeks. I’m definitely saving room for a huge serving of the fresh peach cobbler cooling on the counter.
Well, maybe. Tonight feels different. My anxiety is through the roof. My stomach’s been in knots all day. It’s nothing serious, I tell myself. I’m sure it’s because the reunion is looming so close and the Reuniverse partnership with Jason Deveraux is going ahead. Or, maybe, it’s because we’re about to close on this gorgeous house in Madison Park. Could be some bad chicken wings from The Zoo last night.
Whatever the reason, I’m pushing the food around on my plate instead of eating it. I glance over at Brennan, who’s deep in conversation with Cillian about the house. He’s so excited about it and, truthfully, I am too. Our home. I’m already imagining us hosting Sunday dinners like this, with our own friends and family someday.
I’ll need to learn how to cook., but still…
“So, have you settled on a date yet?” Maureen snaps me out of my thoughts, her eyes dart between Brennan and me, the excitement in her voice palpable. “I know you’ve been busy with other things, but I’m dying to help with the wedding plans.”
“Oh, we’re still figuring it out.” I grimace out a smile through a wave of nausea. “There’s a lot going on with Reuniverse, and we want to make sure everything is perfect for the reunion. After we get through it, I promise I’ll focus on all of the things.”
Maureen beams. “Oh, perfect. Let me know what you need. I’m sure your mum and sisters are helping but planning a wedding takes a village. I’m happy to help with anything.”
“We’ll lean on you a ton.” Brennan squeezes my knee under the table. “We’ve got a lot to look forward to but we’re trying to just enjoy each moment after last year’s stress.”
Cillian, who’s been mostly quiet tonight, suddenly chimes in. “You should totally have the wedding at the new house. Can you imagine? The two of you saying ‘I do’ with those lake views as the backdrop.”
I have such empathy for Brennan’s brother. There’s still a hint of wistfulness in his eyes. I know he’s been putting on a brave face about the woman who broke his heart being back in town, but the way his expression shifts when he mentions love makes me want to reach out and hug him.
“You know, I think that’s a great idea.” Brennan catches my gaze. “We close in a week. Depending on when we set the date, I’m sure we could have everything ready in time.”
“It’s close by, right? The house, I mean.” Seamus shovels a bite of salmon into his mouth. He’s been quiet until now. The gentle giant seems to have a lot on his mind.
“Oh, it’s stunning.” I shift into realtor mode. “It’s a beautiful Roland Terry design, with tall ceilings and broad rooms. There’s a two-story granite fireplace, and the whole place showcases breathtaking views of Lake Washington. I’m Pinterest boarding like mad figuring out how we’re going to decorate it.”
Cillian nods with his eyes shut, as if he’s picturing it. “Big house, big views, big everything. I could totally see myself living somewhere similar one day. I’m ready, if the right girl comes along.”
“Don’t give up hope.” Brennan pats him on the back. “You never know what the future holds.”
He shakes his head. “Ship has sailed, man.”
I glance at Brennan who’s focused on his brother, clearly concerned. They met up the other night and Cillian seems to be navigating the not-drinking thing pretty well, all considering. “Well, most people love to have stability in their life. A house provides a great anchor.”
We resume eating until Maureen speaks up again. “You know, Astrid, I’ve been meaning to ask. Will we be able to meet your parents and siblings soon? It would be lovely to get to know them before the big day.”
Ooof. Another wave of nausea rolls through my belly and I feel my heart drop into my stomach. “Oh, I’m not sure…” I eke out.
But, she’s already pressing on. “Maybe they could join us here next week for Sunday dinner?” Maureen continues, smiling warmly. “Tell me what their favorite food is and I’m happy to cook it. We’ll make them part of the family.”
“I don’t think they’ll come, I’m sorry.” My cheeks flush. I can feel Brennan’s eyes on me and I wish I could just vanish into the chair.