Page 128 of A Perfect Fit

“She is, too,” I say. “She’s just inside the bathroom at the moment.”

As if on cue, footsteps resound as Isabelle walks down the hallway to where Mom and I are standing. She smiles warmly at my mother. “Hi, Suzie. It’s lovely to meet you in person.”

Mom pulls her into a hug. “Likewise, dear.”

Shortly after, Lucy, Victor, and Anna arrive too. I say hello and hug my sister and brother-in-law first before Isabelle greets them.

Anna, who’s trailing behind her parents, flashes me a toothy smile. Her dark hair is pulled into a ponytail with the purple scrunchie we bought from Isabelle’s booth at the market. That day feels like ages ago now, and so much has happened since then—though in the best way possible.

“Uncle Jace, I missed you!”

“I missed you, too, kiddo.” I squat and open my arms for a hug. “You’ve gotten taller since the last time⁠—”

“Isabelle!”

Anna’s face shimmers with excitement as her gaze diverts to Isabelle. Ignoring me, Anna runs to Isabelle, who gives her a hug with a wide smile on her face.

I can’t believe I’m being pushed to the side like that, but the sight of Anna and Isabelle embracing is so wholesome.

When Isabelle stands back up, I give her a playful nudge in the ribs. “It seems like my niece likes you more than me.”

“I can’t help it,” she says, delight scattering across her cheeks.

“And I can’t help what I plan on doing to you tonight either,” I whisper in her ear.

A dusty pink blooms on Isabelle’s cheeks, and I grin in satisfaction.

“Hey, what are you talking about?” Anna asks, suspicion clouding her tone as she glares at me. “Why are you whispering?”

I clear my throat, trying my best not to laugh. “Just adult talk, Anna.”

Anna pokes her tongue at me before following Victor inside my living room. Isabelle trails behind her. Meanwhile, Lucy gives me a warning look.

I lift a hand in defense. “Luce, I swear, I have no intention of corrupting Anna’s mind.”

My sister rolls her eyes. “Relax. That’s not what I was going to say.”

“Oh,” I say, stifling a chuckle.

Lucy smiles, her gaze darting to Isabelle, who’s now chatting with Victor and Anna. “You and Isabelle look good together. I’m happy for you.”

“I’m really happy, too.”

There’s a twinkle in her eye. “I can tell.”

“All right, shall we get started with dinner?” Isabelle calls out to everyone.

“Sounds good!” Lucy chirps.

I join Isabelle in the kitchen, where the pizzas we made together this afternoon are placed on trays, fresh from the oven. There’s Hawaiian, pepperoni, and two eggplant parmigiana pizzas.

I reach for the first tray. “I’ve got it.”

“I’ll grab the wine then,” she says, walking toward the cabinet.

“Glasses are in the top cabinet on the left.”

“I know,” she hums.