Page 37 of Edward’s Bunny
"Language!" Nana and my mother exclaimed simultaneously.
My sister’s expression hardened. “He cheated, didn’t he? He’s been a jerk. I never liked him.”
“Liv, you’ve made it very clear over the years you didn’t like him. As I said, what happened between us just happened. We both wanted something different.”
She crossed her arms as Eva had done earlier. “So, you’re happy about this?” She asked, accusation and sarcasm dripping from every word.
“Of course I’m not happy about this,” I lied. I was relieved that that chapter of my life was over and I had a potential new beginning. “I spent six years with Randy. Of course it’s hard, but if you’re looking for the nitty gritty details, forget about it. It’s between him and me—full stop.” I turned to my mother. “You still need help cooking, right?”
She nodded. “Yes, please.” She focused on my sister. “Olivia, that’s enough. Let your brother be.” Olivia huffed but nodded.
“Brian, you can help your mother with the turkey,” Nana said.
I jerked up in surprise. “Turkey? Who’s going to eat it?”
Nana chuckled. “That's was what your mother said when your father asked for it.”
“Dad asked for turkey?” I couldn’t believe my ears.
My mom huffed as she pulled a massive turkey out of the fridge. “Yes, apparently, one of his work colleagues got him eating chicken and turkey. He apparently loves it.”
“Wait. That’s the turkey that Dad got?” There was no way my dad could eat all that meat. It had to be at least a twenty-pound bird.
Nana cackled from her chair, and small chuckles escaped Olivia’s lips. My mother turned back to me and put her hands on her hips. “Well, when he asked, the whole family was there except for you, and apparently, all of our kids' partners also wanted this.” She waved her hand at the massive bird and twisted her face in disgust. “It’s why I asked for your help. I have no idea how to cook that and since you have cooking experience…”
Her voice trailed off, and I grinned. “I can help you, Ma.”
My grin grew wider as I rolled up my sleeves and washed my hands. "Alright, let's tackle this beast together," I said with determination. "It's going to be a Bondar Thanksgiving to remember."
My mother nodded in agreement and we began our mission. I couldn’t believe we were going to have a true turkey dinner.
“Schatje, your father told me your friend bonded. Is this true?” Nana asked, pulling me from my thoughts.
I looked back at her, and Olivia was seated beside her, helping prep green beans for the green bean casserole.
I nodded. “Yes, Nana. Owen and Hayden are bonded.”
“He’s a predator, Nana,” Olivia said in disgust.
Nana pursed her lips and I internally cringed. I’d hoped that Nana wouldn’t hold the same prejudices as the rest of the family, but it looked like those hopes were dashed.
“And they had no issues figuring it out? You can feel their connection?” Nana asked, ignoring Olivia’s outburst.
“Yes, ma’am.” I pointed to the large roasting pan. “Mom, can you bring that over?” She nodded and held the pan while I lifted the bird from the sink. “Anyway. Yes, Nana. I know for sure that they’re bonded. It’s the real deal, and Owen doesn’t freak out about Hayden being a predator shifter. He’s a good guy.” I paused as I placed the turkey in the pan and back on the counter.
Turning, I focused on my Nana and voiced an opinion that I knew wouldn’t be popular. “I think we might be wrong about predator shifters. I know in the past, we’ve had issues, but times have changed… or rather, I got to know a couple.”
“Wait! You’re hanging around other predators?” My mom and Olivia shouted.
I stepped back. “Yes, I’ve met others, and they’re not all bad.”
“Bull—”
“Don’t you dare say it,” Nana said, interrupting my sister.
“But Nana, he’s—”
Nana cut her off again. “You don’t worry about it.”