EPILOGUE ONE

THE NEXT EVENING

NICOLE

“Are you sure it’s a good idea to spring our relationship on your brother so quickly? It’s barely been forty-eight hours.” Marcus readjusts his tie for the fourth time as we stand on the outskirts of the gym, which has been converted to host tonight’s homecoming dance. Everyone was invited—from the multiple reunions occurring on campus to the current student body—so the large space is crowded and hot.

“I’ve already called him to share the news,” I say with an amused smile. It’s cute how flustered Marcus is to meet my older brother. “So, it’s too late to back out. Besides, he’s headed this way now.”

My brother arrives and hesitantly offers his hand to Marcus. “Professor Hill, good to see you again.”

“Marcus is fine. Formalities seem like overkill at this point.”

Liam nods then pulls me in for a bear hug. “It didn’t take long for you to get into trouble, sis,” he whispers in my ear before letting me go.

“Trouble is my middle name.” I wink, while Marcus and Liam laugh, both with varying degrees of exasperation. After our childhood full of family drama, I don’t expect Liam to immediately accept Marcus; I’m not so delusional that I don’t realize how crazy fast we’re moving, but he’s behaving better than I expected.

Must be Mae’s influence.

Glancing up at Marcus, I wonder how we’ll change each other. Already, my life is brighter because of him, and while we have things to work out—like how to date long-distance—I’m confident in our ability to communicate and compromise.

Maybe it’s the hopeless romantic in me.

But I’ve always believed in love at first sight and in trusting my gut.

“I hope I haven’t missed much.” Mae joins our trio and cuddles close to Liam. My brother and his girl are the perfect example of knowing when you’ve found the one, and they’re happier than ever.

Marcus’s hand massages my spine as if he’s confirming my thoughts, and we share a secret smile, optimistic about our future.