Page 250 of Where We Stay

“She does. We told her a couple of weeks ago.”

“And she hasn’t told me?”

“Apparently, she can keep a secret when she wants to.”

Courtney releases a breath. “That’s mildly terrifying.”

I laugh, but the quiet settles between us again.

“You’re happy?” she asks.

I don’t even have to think about it. “Terrified.”

“That wasn’t what I asked,” she says with a soft laugh.

I look toward the kitchen. Blair’s coffee cup is still sitting beside the sink, and the Christmas playlist she left playing fills the house.

“Yeah,” I tell her. “I’m really fucking happy.”

Courtney nods. There’s something in her expression I can’t quite place. Not sadness exactly.

Maybe acceptance.

“Then congratulations, Dean.”

“Thanks.”

“And Blair? How is she feeling about it?”

“She’s happy. Scared, but happy.”

“Good.” Courtney gives me a small, genuine smile. “I’m happy for both of you.”

Aspen comes thundering back down the hallway with her backpack half-zipped and one boot already on.

“I’m ready!”

Courtney looks down at her. “That was quick.”

“I told you.” Aspen plants both hands on her hips before taking Courtney’s hand. She looks back at me with a proud grin. “Tell Blair I didn’t tell.”

“I will, Pen.”

“Told you I could keep a secret,” she whispers.

Her version of whispering, at least.

She pulls Courtney toward the door just as Blair’s car turns into the driveway. Aspen waves wildly through the window as Courtney pulls away.

“BLAIR, I DIDN’T TELL MOM! DADDY DID!”

Blair bursts out laughing as she climbs the porch steps, grocery bags in both hands.

I immediately take them from her.

“Chill out, Ashford.” She leans up and kisses me. “They’re groceries, not industrial machinery.”

“Still carrying them.”