Page 96 of Plotting Summer

“We are so thrilled for you both,” Joy says, wrapping me in one of her famous hugs. Then Serenity and Jack’s little arms are around my waist.

Once the delighted squeals and excitement over the gorgeous ring die down a little, I make my way toward the rest of the group, getting a congratulatory hug from Walker, Heath, and Stan, then Beau and Mark.

“Are you sure about this guy?” Beau asks, flicking his head in Tristan's direction. Tristan's taking baby Lucas from Heath and making my heart melt all over again.

“Yeah,” I say, unable to restrain my smile. “I’ve been sure about that guy for a very long time.”

“Okay, then.” Beau nods, a huge grin on his face. “I have another question I’ve been meaning to ask you. In Secret Crush, the extremely attractive, exceptionally charming brother of Trenton—that’s me, right?”

Beau’s read my book?

Mark laughs. “You mean the trouble-making brother?”

Apparently, reading my book has become a family affair, and the thought makes me squirm and turns my cheeks pink. And also makes my heart happy.

Beau does a forward circular motion with his hand. “Yes, but he, most importantly, is extremely attractive and exceptionally charming.”

“That was definitely what I was going for with him,” I say, sending Mark a knowing smile.

“It was pretty obvious,” Beau says with a wink. “But I’m glad we had this conversation for clarification purposes. I’ve also been thinking that he seems like a worthy leading man for a future story.” He gives a casual shrug. “That is, if you were looking for your next book idea.”

I give a thoughtful hum. “I’ll have to keep that in mind. Once I finish Bridget’s story.”

“Bridget’s getting a story?” Beau asks, sharing a look with Mark.

“She deserves a redemption.” And honestly, it’s part of my own redemption arc. It can’t make up for what I did, but I hope it’s a step in the right direction.

Mark sets a hand on my arm. “You’re a real special woman, Capri.”

“It’s true,” Beau says. “How Tristan ever caught your eye is beyond me.”

We all spend the next hour together, laughing and chatting and eating the yummy food people brought, before everyone starts to head out. After a farewell hug from each of the Palmers, Tristan walks his family to the door.

“We’re going to head out too,” Jane says with a mischievous glint in her eye. “Give you and Tristan a little time alone to celebrate.”

“Did you need to say it like that?” Walker asks with a huff.

“Absolutely.” Jane hugs me, the two of us lingering in shared excitement, then Walker pulls me in for a hug. There’s no stiffness to it this time. It’s natural and sweet and makes my sisterly heart squeeze with joy.

“I’m happy for you, Capri,” he says, a grin pulling onto his lips. “Tristan’s an okay guy.”

I laugh. “You’re a pretty okay-ish guy yourself.”

He smiles, his gaze sliding to Jane. “Did you hear that? That’s a real solid endorsement right there.”

Jane laughs. “I definitely heard it.”

The two of them head to the front door, and Jack and Serenity step into the spots they vacated. “Are we still going to go to your house like you promised?” Jack asks. “To do the arcade and go bowling?”

“And get an ice cream?” Serenity adds.

I lean down, glancing between them. “Absolutely. I’ll talk to your mom about when your next school break is, and we’ll make it happen.”

They share a smile. Then, apparently appeased with my answer, Jack strolls away.

Serenity’s still looking up at me. “When are you and Tristan getting married?”

“I’m not sure. We haven’t talked about it yet.”