Catie lifted a hand to her mouth to stop her giggles. She’d never thought of the two older brothers as mischievous boys, was charmed by this glimpse into their history. “I think I need to hear more stories.”

But Jake’s gaze had softened, his eyes on a particular photo. Catie knew that one. It was from the day he’d been named acting captain and, for the first time, realized he was considered a leader by not just team management but by his fellow teammates. It showed Danny hugging him so hard that he’d lifted Jake off his feet, Danny’s face aglow with joy.

“That was a good day,” she murmured.

“Yeah.” His voice was rough. “Every time I look at that photo, I feel so fucking lucky to have brothers who have my back. I might’ve played out my heart to earn the jersey, but I would’ve never even been on the field if they hadn’t gone to bat for me when I couldn’t do it for myself.”

A sudden, sharp look aimed at Catie. “Danny, he’s one of the best men I know.”

Catie’s skin burned, but she was saved from having to answer by the torpedo who was Connor. The toddler crashed into Jake’s legs with a giggle and tugged him off to join a game. Catie, meanwhile, found herself looking at that image of open joy from one sibling to another. No jealousy. No spitefulness. Nothing held back.

She was still thinking about the sheer love in that photo half an hour later when everyone was outside, hanging out while the meat grilled. “That cake looks amazing,” she said to Alison.

The older woman leaned into her. “Danny made it himself.” She pressed a finger to her lips. “He honestly thinks I don’t know, that I believe he just picked it up from the shop because it was exactly what he wanted for his birthday.” She shook her head. “I’m his mother. I know everything.”

Catie shifted on her feet, a fierce sense of protectiveness rising to the fore. “He’s shy about his baking.”

“I know.” Alison’s smile was pure maternal love. “I haven’t mentioned it to anyone else, but I knew you must know. You two have always been as thick as thieves.”

Alison spoke again before Catie could quiz her on that startling statement. “It gives me so much joy to see him so happy with this art—and it is art.” She passed Catie a bunch of cutlery to set out on the outdoor table.

“He’s one of the happiest people I know,” Catie said, then decided to chance it. “Which is why I don’t get why you’re worried you let him down?”