The End of Beginning

When Joe and Julia landed in Boston, the chill in the air was sharper than Calgary's. They grabbed their bags and waited near the pickup area, standing close enough that their arms brushed.

Joe turned to her. "Screw it, come here," he murmured.

Julia didn't hesitate. She stepped into his arms, letting herself sink into his warmth.

He pressed a lingering kiss to her lips. "Happy Thanksgiving, baby."

She smiled. "Happy Thanksgiving, Joe."

A car pulled up, and Julia recognized Ryan in the driver's seat.

Joe glanced toward him, then back at Julia. "Guess this is my cue."

Ryan rolled down the window, offering Joe a small nod. "Hey, man."

Joe nodded back. "Hey."

Julia sighed as she reluctantly pulled away. "Text me when you get to your parents'?"

Joe squeezed her waist. "Of course."

With one last smile, she grabbed her bag and got into the car, glancing back once more before getting in.

Julia watched him wave as they drove off. She was feeling the ache of missing him already.

Ryan smirked. "I'm guessing you had a good time."

Julia rolled her eyes but couldn't fight the smile forming.

The drive to their mom's house was quiet, the hum of the road beneath them a comforting white noise. Ryan had one hand on the wheel, the other tapping absently against his knee. Julia stared out the window, lost in thought, her mind still lingering on Joe.

Ryan glanced at her. "You're awfully quiet."

Julia smirked. "Just mentally preparing for Mom's interrogation."

Ryan snorted. "Oh yeah. You're doomed."

She rolled her eyes. "Like you won't get the same treatment."

"Please. Mom already grilled me about Chloe a few months ago. It's your turn."

They both laughed, but Ryan shot her another look. "But seriously, how was Calgary? And don't just say 'good.'"

Julia hesitated, then let out a breath. "It was incredible, actually. And... we made things official."

Ryan raised an eyebrow. "Official?"

She nodded, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Yep... Joe is my boyfriend now."

Ryan let out a short laugh, shaking his head. "Damn. You really fell for the guy, huh? Even despite my warnings and hesitation."

Julia exhaled, leaning her head back against the seat. "Despite your attempts, he still somehow managed to win my affection."

Ryan glanced at her, his expression softer now. "Good. I'm really happy for you, Jules. You deserve someone who cares about you."

Before she could respond, they pulled into the driveway, and their mom, Lisa, was already stepping onto the porch, arms crossed, an expectant look on her face.

Ryan groaned. "Here we go."

Lisa broke into a grin and hurried toward them as soon as they stepped out of the car. "Finally! My babies have returned!" She wrapped them both in tight hugs before stepping back and holding Julia at arm's length. "You look radiant, sweetie. Must be the love in the air."

Julia groaned. "Mom."

Ryan snickered as they headed inside. The house smelled like cinnamon and Italian food, instantly wrapping them in warmth. Lisa's boyfriend, Mark, was already setting the table, giving them a friendly wave.