Page 51 of Always Almost You

“All right,” Mike said, rising. “Before we head into breakfast, I have one more gift.”

Everyone turned toward the tree. All the presents had been opened.

“It’s not wrapped,” Mike continued. “It’s more of an idea.”

Even the boys paused their building.

Mike cleared his throat. “Now that we live on opposite sides of the country, it’s occurred to me that the greatest gift is time together. So, this summer, I’d like to bring all of you to California for a week.”

Gwen blinked. “What?”

“I’ll rent an Airbnb big enough for everyone. We’ll have breakfast and dinner together, and during the day people can explore. L.A. has beaches, mountains, museums, parks, and Dodgers games.” He looked at his brother-in-law. “And if anyone wants to go to Disneyland or Universal Studios⁠—”

“YAY!” the boys exploded in unison. They scrambled to their feet. “Both?” Remy demanded.

“Both,” Mike confirmed. He turned to his mother. “You’ve always loved the galleries in Los Angeles. The food is even more amazing than on your last visit. And I remember,” he glanced at Gwen, “that you said the shopping is next level.”

Gwen laughed, eyes shining. “This is … wow. That’s incredibly generous.”

“My work keeps me busy. I don’t get back here enough. This is selfish, honestly. I’d love showing you my city.”

His brother-in-law nodded. “We’re in.”

“July,” Gwen said quickly. “Before school starts.”

“My summer is wide open,” Mike replied.

His mother’s voice was soft but steady. “I can’t think of anything I’d like more.”

The boys were already chanting, “Disneyland! Universal!”

Buddy barked once, as if adding his vote.

Mike laughed. “All right, all right. As soon as I’m back in L.A., I’ll send you dates and options. You’ll have to respond quickly because places book fast.”

The timer on the oven sounded. The smell of baking bread drifted from the kitchen. Their mother stood. “The egg strata and cinnamon rolls are done. Breakfast is ready.”

“Come on,” Mike said, clapping his hands lightly. “Christmas morning breakfast is my favorite meal of the year.”

Buddy trotted ahead toward the kitchen as if he agreed completely.

CHAPTER 33

Lauren tapped the last period on her thank-you text to Helen and pressed send.

Pumpkin climbed into her lap in the back seat of the car that was taking them to the airport. The little dog turned in a circle before settling against Lauren’s stomach, her fur soft beneath Lauren’s hand.

Lauren looked outside for one last glimpse of Newport. She loved the narrow streets and brick sidewalks. The shops still had wreaths hanging on their doors. Places that, only a few days earlier had been unfamiliar, now felt like home.

“Did you have a nice visit, miss?” the driver asked, catching her eye in the rearview mirror.

“Fabulous,” Lauren replied.

“It’s a beautiful area. We’re very proud of it.”

“Newport is gorgeous,” she said. “But what made my visit so special was the people.”

The driver smiled. “I’m proud to hear it.” He paused before asking, “What was the favorite part of your stay?”