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Coop held open the front door and let Nellie enter first. Cheers greeted them. The door barely closed behind him when his mom wrapped him in a hug, which felt a little like a tackle.
“I’m so happy for you. I just knew she was the one.” She patted his cheeks. “I can’t wait for the wedding.”
“That makes two of us.” He extended his hand to Jeffrey, who pulled Coop into a hug. “Thanks for everything. She was really surprised.”
“You make her happy. I’d do anything to help.” Jeffrey stepped aside, letting Coop swap hugs with Ruthie and his dad.
“Everyone in the kitchen. Jeffrey is going to open the champagne.” Ruthie beamed and wiped her eyes.
Tanner stood next to the counter, grinning. “Congrats, y’all!”
Art waved as he slipped in the back door. “I’ll skip the champagne, but I want to celebrate with you. After all, I did play a part.”
Nellie shook her head. “You’re a regular cupid, aren’t ya?”
Coop pulled Nellie aside and wrapped his arms around her. They watched as Ruthie warned Jeffrey not to let the cork go flying and Mom wiped lipstick off Dad’s cheek. “That’ll be us someday. You’ll be telling me what to do and what not to do, cleaning my face. We’ll be acting like an old married couple.”
She spun to face him. “We’re meant for each other. And I’m pretty good at telling people what to do. Being a big sister gave me lots of practice.”
“I’m sure Tanner can attest to that. Which reminds me ... I still haven’t taken him to lunch.”
“Hopefully he won’t say anything that’ll change your mind.”
“I’d only change my mind if I thought you didn’t want me anymore.”
“That’ll never happen.” She inched up and brushed her lips on his.