After a second round of tea filled everyone’s cups, the sound of the front door opening paused Chuck’s rambling. “Oh! That’s gotta be Melissa and Jacob. Or we have one dumbass burglar.”
Gray snorted at his father’s joke.
“We’re here! Finally!” sang a voice.
Bounding into the kitchen, Melissa appeared, arms laden with wrapped gifts and bags. Long blond locks bounced over her woolen shoulders. They were as shiny as her glossed cherry red lips on her powdered round face. First she dropped everything onto the ground and greeted her family, then she brought Helen into a hug. She had always been a hugger, much to Helen’s chagrin.
“Hi, Helen!” A floral perfume wafted up Helen’s nose before her cousin broke away to turn her attention to the stranger. She gasped. “And is this for real? A boyfriend for Helen! Great to meet you!” She leaned in to air-kiss either side of his cheek. Helen was glad she was spared that at least.
A little flustered from her high energy, Joaquin cleared his throat. “Hey, I’m Joaquin. Nice to meet you too—Melissa, right?”
“Yep! I’m sure Helen told you lots about me!”
“Actually—”
Helen elbowed Joaquin in his side.
“That’s okay! I’m sure she’s been too busy gushing over you! Look at those arms! They’re like popping through your jacket!” Melissa reached over to squeeze Joaquin’s biceps with her hand and oohed. Ever full of life, Melissa often conjured images of yapping toy dogs in Helen’s mind. Even with an active interest in yoga and pilates, her energy never depleted and those activities always seemed to claim all of her tranquil moments.
Last to come into the kitchen was Jacob who had just finished putting their luggage in Melissa’s room.
“There’s my beautiful second son!” Lori crooned. “Gosh, you two are such a beautiful couple!”
“Hey, man, you must be Jake,” said Joaquin, offering his hand.
Melissa’s husband ran a pale palm over his curly chestnut hair before taking Joaquin’s for a shake. “Jacob, please.”
“Jaaay—” Joaquin stared him in the eye. “Cob.”
Jacob clicked his tongue. “That’s right!” He winked. “My parents’ gave me the name so I’ll use the whole thing.” He finally released Joaquin’s hand. “So! What school did you go to? I’m a Dartmouth man myself.”
Joaquin’s mouth parted a little ways. “Uh, definitely not that …”
“Ah, that’s all right.” Jacob slapped a hand on Joaquin’s back. “Not everyone’s cut out for university. Someone’s gotta take the trash to the dump!”
Joaquin narrowed his eyes. A supplicating smile forced his lips. “Right.”
“Ah, I’m so glad everyone’s here!” Melissa sang. She curled her arms over Grandpa Roy and gave him a squeeze. “Every year we’re growing and expanding!” A knowing look shot at Helen.
“You’re next, Gray!” Jacob gripped onto the freshman’s shoulder and lightly shook him on the stool.
Gray laughed before stuffing another butter cookie into his mouth.
“Let’s have a toast,” Roger suggested, reserved. He held up his mug of tea. Iseul held up her book. The others lifted their cups. “To old happy memories, and future ones with an expanded family! Thank you for joining us, Tom, Joaquin, and Jacob, though I guess you’re bound to us Halidays now.”
“Joaquin! You can still run!” Gray whispered loudly with a grin across his face.
“Well, if you guys bolt or not—”
“Uncle Roger! Don’t even imply Jacob will divorce me!” Melissa gasped.
“I didn’t mean—” Roger let out an exasperated sigh. “Fine. Tom and Joaquin! If you guys decide to leave or not, that’s for the future to worry about. Glad to have you all here and now!” He raised his mug up high, indicating that was all he was going to say on the matter.
Helen smiled as she held up her tea and clinked ceramic with those around her. Her father rarely spoke up among his more boisterous family, but when he did, she was proud of him, even if he was reprimanded. His mouth was stretched into a grin framed by light scruff caught in the light. The confidence seemed to radiate from him, and Helen hoped to absorb some of his courage.
Comments (8)
See all