“Maybe you don’t care what other people think but what about our people? What about Mom and Dad and your friends and people that only know you two as siblings? How is that going to work when you want to get married or have a baby?”

“I don’t know, Monica. You’re asking us a list of questions we haven’t thought about. We’re taking it day by day. We weren’t anticipating having to explain this to anyone a week into our relationship.”

“Relationship?” Monica repeats.

“Yes, Monica. A relationship. Or are you still not getting what I’m saying? Gabrielle. Is. Mine.” A smile pulls at my lips hearing his absolute possession of me. “Every part of her belongs to me and I am not giving her up for anyone. Not you, not our parents, not anyone. If anyone has a problem with it, and I’m sure there will be, I’ll fucking deal with it as it comes. But I’m not giving away my chance to be happy because people may find fault with it. We can just move and you’ll never see us again. I’m sure that will go over really well with our mother that is so desperate for grandchildren she can’t see straight.”

“I don’t think she’s desperate for her son and daughter to have her grandchildren together.”

James lets out an exasperated breath. “Mon, I’m not going back and forth with you about this. It is what it is. Deal with it or don’t, but the Q and A is over.” He pulls my hand to his lips. “I know how this looks and I know it’s a lot, but how do you think we’re feeling?” Tears prickle in my eyes and goosebumps rise all over my skin. “I’ll take care of Gabrielle, Monica. You know that.”