“You can’t work for the enemy,” I deadpanned, stealing the bowl of broccolini from the table so she couldn't eat any more. I walked it to the kitchen, dumping the rest in a storage container and placing the bowl in the sink.

“He’s not my enemy, Elis, and he’s not yours. Stop being so weird about successful people.”

“I'm not weird about success—”

“He’s totally weird about it,” Devlynn said to Sarena. “And Sebastian Vaughn just confirmed. He’s wondering if you can meet him for an interview?”

“Yes!” Sarena beamed. “Give him my number.”

“What? You should keep that private—” I tried to interject.

“Elis, please. I’m nineteen. Chill the fu—”

“Kids, language!” Mom shook her head, bringing her empty glass to the sink, smiling with every step.

“Devlynn and I should get going.”

“Oh, okay, honey. It’s been so nice having everyone in the house again.” She pulled Sarena into a hug. “Please, let’s make family dinners a weekly thing.”

“Weekly?” I scowled.

“Monthly at least, and please bring Devlynn with you.”

“What she means is don’t bother coming without Devlynn.” Sarena pretend-slapped my cheek. “Love looks good on you, dude.”

I shook my head, prepared to defend myself against sappy things like love and happiness, but I couldn't. They saw the difference in me, and I felt it. Devlynn was good for me, from sunup to sundown. I thought about nothing but her.

“Ten-four, baby sis.” I laughed before a rap song sang through the dining room.

“Oh, that’s me,” Sarena darted across the room and picked up her phone. “And look at that. It’s my new employer.”

“Not yet,” I grunted.

Sarena only shrugged, responding to a text on her screen, a grin darting across her face.

“Lord knows what’s going on over there,” I bristled.

“She’s in good hands.” Devlynn tucked herself into my shoulder.

I looped my arm around her, snuggling her and pushing my nose into her hair. She smelled so delicious. I couldn't wait to get her home tonight and make her cry out my name as she creamed on my face again.

“Thank you for dinner, Mrs. Brooks. It means more than you know.”

I couldn’t help my sense of pride when the two women who meant the most to me hugged.

“Anytime, dear, and feel free to come over even without Elis. We girls could pour afternoon cocktails and have some real fun.”

“Mom,” I husked, “behave.” I kissed her on the cheek.

“Thanks for leaving me leftovers, fam. It’s been real!” Sarena waved from the kitchen, a forkful of broccolini in one hand and the thumb of the other working the keyboard on her screen.

“She’s crazy,” I whispered.

Mom waved me off, and Devlynn laughed.

“Crazy awesome,” my girl said. “She dances to the beat of her own drum. I think she’ll make the perfect nanny.”