The only thing between us
Afterward, he and I stood with his family in the lobby for a while, catching up. Terry and Andrea Loftbrok were great people who always treated me with genuine kindness.
From what I'd learned of Gabriel's antisocial habits, I think they regarded me as some sort of last hope for him. Brandy affirmed as much when she and I dashed to the restroom together.
"Dad told Uncle Gabriel not to screw things up," she informed me as we washed our hands.
"He said even if Uncle Gabriel is famous, him getting a woman like you defies belief."
I laughed and smoothed down the skirt of my dress.
"I don't know about that. I don't think your dad gives your uncle enough credit."
Brandy gave me a sage look, worthy of someone much older.
"Uncle Gabriel spent last Valentine's Day at a library."