I kept turning. A photo of Mia on my shoulders. Will and me hanging drywall. Ava grabbing Luci from mid-climb up my leg. The last one stole my breath. A picture I’d had no idea someone had taken. I had an arm wrapped around Caelyn’s waist and was gazing down at her. I couldn’t remember what it was she’d been saying, but I was rapt. Caught up in the pull of her.

As I stared at the photo, I realized one thing. I was in love with Caelyn O’Connor. Had been for months. A woman who I hadn’t even kissed. The knowledge had me questioning my sanity a bit. But it didn’t change the fact that nothing in the world could make me walk away from that bit of crazy.

“Do you like it?” Ava asked quietly.

I turned to face her. “This is one of the most special gifts I’ve ever received. I’m going to keep it always.”

“Really?”

The hope in Ava’s voice was gutting. “Yes. When the living room is done, I’m going to put it on the coffee table so that everyone who visits can see it.”

She beamed. “That’s awesome.” Hopping up, she threw her arms around me. “Love you, Griffin.”

My throat constricted. “Love you, too, Avs.”

As she released me, running for her sister and Luci, my gaze locked with Caelyn’s, tears filled those gorgeous green eyes. “Thank you,” she mouthed.

I couldn’t even form silent words. Because what did you say to a woman who had given you everything and didn’t even realize it?

33

Caelyn

“You’re not supposed to clean up after your own birthday party,” I chided as I placed a stack of dishes on the counter.

Griffin followed suit with his own plates. “Well, your usual helpers are down for the count. It must have been the combination of sugar overload and running around the backyard for five hours straight.”

I grinned at the mess around us. Even Will had passed out already. I’d gone to ask him if he had training tomorrow, and he’d been sprawled out face-down on his bed. “Totally worth it.” I turned to take Griffin in. “Did you have fun?”

He leaned a hip against the counter. “I haven’t celebrated my birthday since I turned sixteen.” His words cut—realization that he’d been alone for so long. “It felt good to celebrate again. Thank you. For everything.”

I could feel my cheeks getting hot. “I’ve got one more surprise for you.”

“Are you trying to kill me? I already got choked up when Ava gave me her book, and when I saw their sign. Are you determined to turn me into a member of the frequent-crier club?”

I burst out laughing. “It’s a pretty good club to be a part of.”