brookegoldsteinâ:
Brooke couldnât stop smiling from the backseat of the car, locking eyes with Ry through the rearview mirror as he drove them, his mom riding shotgun despite offering her the spot. Brooke knew better than to take that spot. She loved and respected Riley too much and, besides, her parents did raise her right. âWe do.â Both her and Riley said at the same time in regards to Gio, laughing when they did. âI mean, if Emmett didnât go for it, I wouldâve.â The brunette shrugged. âNot that it wouldâve mattered because clearly Iâm not Gioâs type but, you know.â He was kidding, obviously, and smirking back at the soldier. It was so exciting, knowing Ry wasnât going anywhere, but also a little weird. Brooke was so used to having him in town for days counted, used to missing him, worrying about him overseas. She leaned in a little closer, resting her arms between the driver and passengerâs seat. âEmmettâs doing okay. Heâs really excited youâre coming home. I apologize on his behalf ahead of time. It must be that huge teddy bear you got him.âÂ
"Mhmm. Just Emmett? No love from you, Benji, or Ollie?â Ryder asks teasingly, laughing when Riley gives his arm a playful smack at his comment. âIâm kiddinâ, Iâm kiddinâ! Iâm excited to see everyone. This day has been a long day cominâ and Iâm grateful that Iâm here for it.â Ryder knew he was one of the lucky ones, to make it home and to come home to such a loving, caring, supportive bunch. âIâm excited to see everyone. Emmett included. Iâm glad to hear heâs doinâ so well. That everyone is, really. I feel like I've missed so much.âÂ











