12 Days of Forever(20)

I find myself watching and waiting for their return, laughing with them. Eden is adorable with her dark, curly hair and chubby cheeks. She loves everyone, but the minute she sees her mom or dad in the room, her eyes light up.

Jenna comes into the living room with a squealing Eden in her arms. She sets her down, only for Eden to waddle-run back to wherever the other kids are.

“She’s gorgeous, Jenna.”

“Thanks! She’s a handful, that’s for sure. She’s all Jimmy and has him completely wrapped around her finger.”

“Quinn was the same way with Harrison. It’s not hard when they’re so innocent, and you can’t help but fall in love with them.”

This time it’s Jimmy that walks in with Eden in his arms. She’s patting his cheeks and saying “Daddy”. I’ve known Jimmy for a long time, and it’s hard to think that he almost wasn’t here to see his daughter come into the world. The guys have always dealt with overzealous fans, but only in the form of women. I’ve witnessed far too many women throwing themselves at the guys, but never have they had a problem with a man until Jenna’s ex wanted her back.

Jenna takes a squirming Eden from Jimmy’s hands, and she tries to push Jimmy away from Jenna when he goes to kiss her. It’s cute how possessive she is.

“When are you going to get up the duff?”

The slap and “ouch” that quickly follows comes as a result of Jenna slapping Jimmy. “What, Sweet Lips? It’s a valid question.”

“It’s rude, Jimmy. Not everyone wants kids, ya know. You didn’t.”

“Yeah, but that was before I knocked you up good and proper.” Jimmy moves out of the way before Jenna can slap him again. As soon as he’s out of the room, Eden wants down.

“I don’t know how you put up with Jimmy for so long,” Jenna says with a shake of her head.

I shrug. “It’s one of those things you just learn to deal with. He’s always been like a brother to me. He’s not the same though. You make him different,” I say, much to her joy. Her smile is wide, and she ducks her head as she looks away.

“He’s changed me. He put up with so much after he was shot, and then after my ex tried to… well, let’s just say Jimmy has had more than enough reasons to leave me.”

“I think you underestimate his love for you, Jenna. I was there when he was with Chelsea. He never looked at her the way he looks at you. You’re his match.”

We’re interrupted by Liam, Josie and Noah opening the door and walking in, greeting us with a boisterous “Merry Christmas”. It’s silly that we’re all here tonight at Harrison’s since we’ll be at Liam’s tomorrow, but who am I to complain about a party with adult beverages and food? And maybe a sighting of a man who made me feel so incredibly special yesterday. When we went back to his house last night, I wanted to take things to the next level, but he was hesitant. I could see that. I don’t blame him, really. I’m only visiting for a few days and probably won’t see him for another year.

Jenna and I make our way into the dining room where Liam scoops me up and spins me around.

“You have to meet my wife,” he says as he puts me down.

“Josie, this is Yvie, Harrison’s sister, and this is my son, Noah.” Hearing Liam introduce his family with so much pride in his voice reminds me that there’s a different side to him. I’m used to the cynical side of Liam, and haven’t seen this loving family man since Quinn was a baby. Noah waves, and quickly leaves us to chat.

“It’s very nice to meet you. I’ve heard so much about you,” Josie tells me. I wish I could say the same, but Liam never spoke about her.

“Congratulations,” I say, knowing their anniversary is coming in a few days, with yet another party to be had. I’ll miss that one though, as I’m going back to New York Christmas night. As much as I’d like to stay, I have to return to work.

“Thank you. It’s been an amazing two years.” Josie beams at Liam who leans in for a kiss. That’s my cue to make myself scarce. I glance at the door, hoping that it’ll open and Xander will walk through, but no such luck. I told him yesterday how much I hated being the fifth wheel and I thought he understood.

I walk down the hall toward the kitchen and stop in the doorway, spying on Harrison and Katelyn. He has her caged against the counter, and it looks like he’s telling her a secret. The look of adoration in her eyes -- that is what I want. I want to look at the man I love and know I’ll never stop loving him, no matter what. My brother’s life – what he’s turned it into – is really something to marvel at. He’s taken on the role of dad flawlessly, and done so without reservation. Not too many men, or women for that matter, would do that. I know that Quinn loves Katelyn without question.