“Seth!” she cries, beaming. “Why didn’t you tell us?”
“Hot off the presses,” I say.
My mom rushes over and gives Molly a big hug. “I’m so happy for you two.”
“Seth is a lucky man,” my dad says.
Dave has politely wiped away his instinctive horror. “Welcome to the family, Molly,” he says.
Molly grins at him. “Honor to be nominated.”
My mom holds up an enormous bag of leftovers. “Would you two like some hush puppies?”
“No,” I say quickly. I’m sure Molly is dying to get out of here.
“Actually yes,” Molly says. “I’m starving.”
“Oh good,” my mom says. “We also have tri-tip and mahi and—here, I’ll make you a plate.”
“Thanks,” Molly says.
“Do you want a plate, Seth?” my mom asks.
“I’ll share Molly’s.”
“I was just about to open a bottle of pinot,” my dad says. “Care for a glass?”
“Sure,” Molly says.
And then my parents are dishing up food and pouring wine and leading us out to the patio.
Clara has managed to distract the boys by taking them for a night swim. The pool is lit up pink, and their splashes and cries of pleasure create a resort vibe, like we’re all on one big family vacation.
I try not to fixate on the idea that someday that could be a reality.
“So, Molly,” my dad says. “When are you heading back to La La Land?”
I realize I have not yet thought to ask this question myself.
“My flight is first thing in the morning,” she says.
“It is?” I ask, crestfallen.
I assumed she must be staying longer, seeing family.
“Yeah. I’ve been here all week.”
My parents and Dave are clearly picking up on my disappointment.
My mother stands up suddenly. “Kal, Dave, why don’t we grab our suits and join the boys for a family swim.”
My nephews hear this and immediately start screaming, “FAMILY SWIM! FAMILY SWIM!”
“All right, all right,” Dave yells at his children. “Let’s not wake up the astronauts on the moon.”
“I guess you need to get home to pack,” I say to Molly. I try not to show how bummed I am, but I am not at all successful.
“Sorry, I should have thought to say something. I just … got caught up in the moment.”
“Don’t apologize. I’m just sad we have to say goodbye already.”
She nods. “I know. When are you leaving?”
“Friday.”
Today is Sunday. I’d been looking forward to a week of family time, but after the day we’ve just had—very possibly the best day of my life—the idea of being here without her is as appealing a prospect as swallowing sand.
Molly’s phone buzzes. She grabs her bag and glances at it. “Shit. It’s my mom. Passive aggressively asking if you abducted and killed me.”
“Not yet. But I plan to on the way home.”
“Oh good. I’m tired of this mortal coil.”
“Well, shall we call it a night?”
She nods. “Yeah, I should spend a little time with her before I pack up. Let me say goodbye to your fam.”
We wave goodbye at Clara and the boys and intercept Dave and my parents in the living room. Molly hugs them all, which is somewhat amusing to watch as they are all in their bathing suits.
