Two Can Play (Celeste and Dominic) novel Chapter 555

"Welcome to the family," he said. "For real this time."

"Thank you, Sparrow," Celeste said. "For everything."

He nodded, then turned to me and extended his hand. "Congratulations, boss."

I took his hand. And then I pulled him into a hug.

He went still. For a full second, he did not move, did not react. Then, slowly, his arms came up and he hugged me back.

"Thank you," I said into his ear. "For everything."

When he pulled back, Sparrow's eyes were bright. He cleared his throat and looked away. "You are getting soft in your old age, Ford."

"I am getting happy," I corrected. "There is a difference."

He huffed, but there was no heat in it. "I wish you all the happiness in the world, boss. You deserve it."

I clasped his shoulder. "So do you."

Celeste turned to Scarlett, and her smile softened. "You look stunning tonight," she said. "That dress is incredible on you."

Scarlett's cheeks flushed. "Thank you. Sparrow had it brought for me. I still do not know how he managed it with such short notice."

"He has his ways," Celeste said. "But the dress is only half of it. You carry it beautifully."

Scarlett ducked her head, a genuine smile spreading across her face. "Congratulations, Celeste. Really. I am so happy for you both."

"Thank you, Scarlett. I hope you find your own happiness soon. You deserve it more than most."

Scarlett looked at Sparrow, then quickly away. "We will see."

"As if I would miss this. Do not be ridiculous."

She turned to Celeste and took her hands as well. "Welcome to the family, my dear. I do not say this lightly, and I do not say it often, but I believe you are exactly what my grandson needed."

"Thank you, Granny," Celeste said, and I heard the genuine warmth in her voice. "That means more than you know."

My grandmother smiled and patted her hand. Then she released her and turned.

And her eyes landed on Scarlett.

The smile did not fall from her face. It hardened. Her gaze went cold, sharp, cutting. She looked at Scarlett like she was something that had crawled in from the street.

Then she turned to Sparrow.

"What is this woman doing by your side, Alexander?" Her voice was low, controlled, and venomous. "And where is your wife?"