Page 57 of Don't Fall For Your Brother's Best Friend

That was much needed and I feel like I can finally relax around everyone. It also makes me wonder if what Paxton said is true. Am I in love with Anya?

I kind of always think I have been. Just too afraid to ever admit it.

“Dinner is delicious, Mom,” Brock says, savoring a mouthful of roast chicken.

“Yes, everything is amazing,” Callum agrees, nodding enthusiastically as he reaches for another helping of mashed potatoes.

No one questioned me after I appeared shortly after Anya. They were all so excited about her fake phone call that they didn’t notice my delayed arrival. The dinner table is buzzing with conversation and laughter, the clinking of cutlery punctuating the cheerful atmosphere. It's a reminder of how fortunate I am to share such a close bond with everyone here.

My eyes keep finding Anya’s across the table, and each time they do, my heart beats faster in my chest. Her presence stirs emotions in me that I never knew existed, feelings that are becoming irresistibly addictive.

“Mom and I made some chocolates to go with the apple pie for dessert,” Anya says, her smile lighting up the room as her eyes meet mine.

“I keep telling her she should offer her treats more often for parties. They are always delicious,” I add, holding her gaze, a silent connection passing between us.

“That’s not a bad idea. If anyone knows food, it’s Griffin,” Callum says, gesturing toward me with his fork.

“Hey,” Carol says with a laugh, giving Callum a playful nudge.

“Of course, you too, Mom,” Callum quickly adds, his face breaking into a grin as everyone chuckles.

Everyone laughs as Paxton stands up, raising his glass. “Dinner has been perfect, Mom. Thank you. And Dad, thanks for setting everything up.” We all chuckle at his gratitude, sharing a warm moment of appreciation for our parents.

Paxton takes a deep breath, his smile widening. “I asked Mom and Dad if they could host this dinner because Hartford and I have an announcement.”

The room falls silent, everyone at the table leaning in slightly, anticipation hanging in the air. We all have our suspicions, but we're finally about to hear it from Paxton himself.

“Hartford has been my best friend since kindergarten, and I’ve loved her every day since the day I first met her. Best friends, boyfriend and girlfriend. Last night, I asked her if she would like to add wife to that description, and she said yes. Hartford and I are getting married.”

The room erupts in joyful noise. Carol, overcome with emotion, wipes her tears as she jumps up to hug the newly engaged couple. Everyone is offering their congratulations, voices overlapping in a chorus of happiness and excitement.

Amidst the celebration, my eyes find Anya’s. She’s watching with tears glistening in her eyes, a radiant smile on her face. The love she has for Paxton and Hartford is palpable, reflected in her teary gaze.

Under the table, I reach out and find her knee, giving it a gentle squeeze. Her eyes meet mine, and she smiles, a look that takes my breath away. My heart races as I return her smile, feeling a rush of emotions.

We both glance back at Paxton and Hartford, who are locked in an adoring gaze, their smiles brighter than ever. The love between them is unmistakable, a testament to their journey together.

Holy shit.

My eyes drift back to Anya, and in that moment, everything becomes clear.

Paxton is right—I am in love.

The realization hits me like a tidal wave, profound and undeniable. Anya’s presence, her smile, the way she makes me feel—it all points to one truth. I’m in love, and it’s the most incredible feeling in the world.

Chapter 21

Anya

I can’t believe my older brother is getting married. And to Hartford of all people. I love Hartford. She’s like a sister to me—we’ve practically grown up together. My heart swells with joy and disbelief.

Unable to contain my emotion any longer, I rise from the table and envelop Hartford in a warm hug. The rest of the family follows suit, standing up and surrounding Paxton and Hartford with congratulatory embraces.

“I can’t believe you’ll finally be my sister,” I tell Hartford, my voice thick with happiness.

“Let’s celebrate!” my father announces, popping the cork off a bottle of champagne with a satisfying pop. “I’m so happy to welcome Hartford to the family.”

My mother winks at Hartford. “I always knew she’d be my daughter someday.”