Carter's Savior

Thirty-Two

Sloan's POV

Having a big family there are a million pros and cons.

Cons, it's always loud and there's always someone trying to talk to you. Pro...well I guess there are only cons.

Carter and I crashed as soon as we got to my room and took the best nap of our lives. Both of us snoring and drooling all over the pillows. But there was something so special about having Carter in my room. In my bed. With me.

Now, we were back downstairs waiting for Dad to finish cooking. Carter and I ended up matching, both wearing red sweaters and light-wash jeans. He was sitting on the couch talking away with Ezra, and Ezra talked about the annual trip they were taking right after the holidays. Carter and I opted out, needing some time alone from everyone. We told them we would for sure join them next year.

Finnick is joining this year. He hasn't been on any trips in five years so it all came as a surprise to us when he said he was coming. I hope I see him before Carter and I leave. All I know is, that Ezra is probably ecstatic about it. I might have had a crazy crush on Carter as a kid, but at least I had a chance. Ezra having a crush on our parent's friend? Yeah...there's no way in hell that's happening.

I turned away from Carter and I scanned the crowd and noticed a pair of dark brown eyes staring at me from across the room. Her arms were crossed and anger was seeping out from her.

Delany.

I didn't call her. I called everyone else except for her. Goddess I was a terrible brother. I walked over to her, but when I stood beside her she didn't even look up at me. Which isn't good. Delany was known for giving the silent treatment. For days. Never faltering.

"Delany," I said softly, trying to get her attention or at least listen to me. "I have no excuse. I told you I was going to call and I didn't." As I stood here I saw Eliezar peeking from where he stood talking to Pops. Even though he was just a wolf he was still very protective of his twin.

"Can I make it up to you?" I leaned down and nudged her arm slightly. She only looked at me for a second before staring off back into space.

"Oh come on, Lanie. Why don't we make a gingerbread house?" I whispered to her. I know we were older, me 20 and her 13, but this was something that she and I did growing up. Carter doesn't know this yet, but Christmas time was my favorite time of year. The scents, the sweets, and just having family around. I loved it.

I especially loved it, when Delany and I stayed up all night making gingerbread for our gingerbread contest the next day.

That seemed to catch her attention as he looked at me, her eyes watering.

"You didn't call me and that really hurt my feelings." She said and my heart ached in pain seeing her cry. "But I will make gingerbread with you. But don't think you're forgiven." She pointed her finger at me and grabbed her pulling her in for a hug.

"I'm so sorry, Lanie. Won't happen again I promise." She hugged me back only for a moment, then walked away to where Eli was standing. I of course didn't miss how he shot me a glare but only for a moment.

"Dinner's ready!"

We all hustled to the dining room. There were added tables and chairs to accommodate all the extra guests. Carter sat across from me, right by Ezra as he always did. Which didn't bother me much. At least I was able to look at him.

The rest of the family filled in, taking up Sean and Addi's seats. Who knows when they'll be back to join us. I hope they don't think they aren't invited anymore because of their parents. They are Carter's family which makes them mine, they are welcome any time.