Page 49 of A Package Deal

“Almost as sweet as you,” Chet murmured after tasting the frosting, pulling her close and kissing her soundly.

“Ugh, so not fair,” Pris complained.

“Be happy that you found your person, Pris,” Nelie said, looking at Chet with a smile. “It took me forty years to find the person who makes me the happiest. And now that I have him, the world is my oyster and I’m never letting him go.”

Chet’s arms tightened around her waist. “Feeling’s mutual, Mrs. Bingham.”

“Alright, enough mushy stuff,” Emily declared, picking up the platter of ham. “Let’s eat before Gus uses his cane as a weapon.”

As they carried the food to the dining room, Nelie glanced at the living room—at Gus with his cane, at the girls playing with Nate, at Suzanne laughing with Jackson. Her heart was full and grateful.

A year ago, she couldn’t have imagined having all this—a man who loved her, the business of her heart, a beautiful new home in the making, and family all around her.

Chet caught her looking and pulled her closer. “Penny for your thoughts?” His warm breath caressed her cheek.

“Just thinking how lucky I am,” she replied, her voice thick with emotion.

“We’re the lucky ones,” he said, kissing her temple. “Come on, birthday boy needs his cake.”

Hand in hand, they joined their family at the table, ready to celebrate not just Nate’s first year of life, but all the beautiful moments yet to come.