His aunt sitting across the table cleared her throat loudly. “I heard a rumor that Gran wanted to set up a fireworks display during the bonfire this year. Was the resort not open to the idea?”
She was clearly trying to change the topic to something more neutral. Despite the expressions on Violet’s and Dad’s faces revealing that they’d rather continue the conversation, his aunt succeeded.
The wait staff brought in plates of steak and shrimp. This was the meal Wyatt always looked forward to each year. He couldn’t fathom eating right now, though, when it felt like his stomach was filled with a lead balloon.
He tried to focus on Chrissy instead. He told her about some of the past activities they’d had at the reunion. She shared about the time, not long after Emma had started working for the vet clinic, she’d brought home a litter of eight puppies they spent all night feeding from a bottle. Wyatt was able to eat the majority of his meal to the accompaniment of Chrissy’s beautiful laughter.
Dessert was served, although many people opted out in favor of s’mores around the bonfire. Wyatt suggested they do the same and was relieved when Chrissy quickly agreed. They excused themselves and escaped from the dining room.
He looked down at his slacks and nice button-up shirt. They’d changed clothes before dinner, knowing that it would be a fancier affair. “I think I’m going to change again before we go out to the bonfire. This feels entirely too stuffy for campfire smoke and s’mores.”
Chrissy giggled. “I have to say I agree.” She motioned to the pretty dress that flowed to her calves. “Shorts and a t-shirt seem like a much better outfit for that kind of event.”
The pastel blue fabric of her dress fit her perfectly. She was pretty no matter what she wore, but Wyatt had to admit that her choice of dresses was becoming one of his favorites. He was pretty sure the sundress she wore on the beach earlier that afternoon would forever be associated with ocean waves and sweet kisses.
They took the elevator upstairs and walked down the hall to pause in front of Chrissy’s room. Wyatt took her hand in his. “I’ll meet you in fifteen minutes?”
She gave a little nod. He kissed her hand and waited for her to disappear into her room before going into his.
Suggesting they go out together for real was going to be a gamble. But if how he felt now was any indication, Wyatt didn’t think he could go back to only running into Chrissy at the coffee shop after this.
For the first time in more years than he’d care to count, Wyatt finally allowed himself to hope for the family he’d always wanted.
