Page 90 of Calling a Cease-Fire

“Can you help me bring up another case of drinks from the basement?”

I arched my brow. “I wasn’t aware we needed more drinks.”

“Oh. We totally do. I think we’re getting low on light beer.”

I glanced around, acting like I was confused. “I don’t see anyone drinking the light beer. You sure?”

“Yes. I’m sure. Come help me. Right now.” The look she sent me said I better not argue with her. But riling her up was still my favorite thing to do.

“Zack, stop giving that girl a hard time and go help her,” my mom said from across the deck, giving me her best mom look. If she only knew what Mia really needed help with.

“See, even your mom agrees.” The wide grin Mia sent me over her shoulder reminded me of the Cheshire cat.

“Of course she does,” I mumbled under my breath. “You're her favorite now.”

Mia spun and paused in the doorway, turning to face me. The sheer desire and longing that stared back at me sent all notions of teasing her out the window as my own need kicked up.

I pushed up from my chair and followed her inside. Our friends, who were more like family, would survive without us for a little while.

Lacing my fingers through Mia's, she tugged me toward the basement, laughing when I caught her around the waist before we even made it to the stairs.

Years ago, I never imagined this would be my life. A backyard full of family. Friends who'd become brothers and sisters. A future I couldn't wait to wake up to. And the woman I loved leading me toward forever.

Turns out, I hadn't just found the love I'd been looking for.

I'd found home.

Epilogue

MIA

Did I really agree to this? Six couples, five kids. Infinite chaos.

I shook my head as Jay took the baby from Sarah while she dealt with a crying Nora. The cabin we’d rented in the Poconos was plenty big enough for all of us, yet sometimes felt entirely too small. But, all in all, it was nice all of us spending time together.

I still couldn’t believe this had become my life. I’d never even for a second thought I’d fall in love with anyone, never mind move in with that person. And now, not only had I done both, but watching all the families together this week kind of made me want that too. Because of Zack. Being with him made me want things I never thought I would.

Strong arms wrapped around my waist and Zack’s face appeared over my shoulder. “What do you think? Want one of our own running around at some point?”

“Maybe.” I turned to face him with a smirk. “Let’s start with a kitten or puppy.”

“How about both?”

I chuckled with a roll of my eyes. “We’ll start with one.”

Boundaries were important with Zack. If he had it his way, there’d be three litters of each running around the house.

“Fine.” He blew out a sigh.

“Zack, Zack.” The twins jumped excitedly up and down in front of me. “Can we do the snowball fight yet? We want to be on your team.”

I cringed, hoping I wasn’t about to get roped into this. But also knowing Zack, I most likely would.

“Sure. Go tell everyone we’re doing it in five minutes.”

They smiled excitedly and ran off. He was quiet for a minute, and I could feel him deep in thought.

“You know…” he started, his lips twitching as he said the words. “We’re the last couple left to get engaged.”