“Mom,” Lena said with a helpless smile, “is the Grandpa’s birthday party or my personal matchmaking event?”

“Why not both?” Carol replied, breezy as ever. It’s settled-keep an open mind later. My beautiful, talented daughter could snag a boyfriend in seconds.” Lena sighed. “Fine, fine. You go play matchmaker. I’m gonna find Rea-she even brought Grandpa a gift.”

She used me as an escape route and plopped down beside me a moment later. I’d overheard the whole thing and couldn’t help but grin.

“Your mom’s got guts. And honestly, she’s not wrong. Weren’t you the one who said the best way to get over someone is to move on with someone else?”

“Alright, if I see someone I like, I’ll make a move immediately.”

Before she could finish, Aaron strolled into view.

In a sleek black suit with the top button of his shirt undone, he had this polished-but- effortless look that could rival a movie star. The dark fabric against his pale skin gave him an untouchable, almost mysterious vibe. “Your uncle’s kind of a heartthrob,” I teased.