The Heirs: Fated Heirs

Chapter 6

Chapter 6

NOW – November

Dublin

Josh

I love being home in Dublin. As much as I love running shit on Gilmore Island with the Wolves, there's something about being home, about knowing that one day this will all be my responsibility and mine to look after, that I enjoy more than anything.

It's also my favorite person on earth's birthday.

Mom hums to herself sweetly as she sits behind her desk obliviously. She clicks away on her computer, glasses perched on her nose. I lean against the door frame and clear my throat loud enough so she can hear me over her humming.

Vivian Callahan gasps, jumping up from her chair.

She beams as she runs across her office and pulls me into her arms in the world's biggest hug, kissing both my cheeks.

"I swear you've gotten taller in the weeks since I've seen you!" she cries.

"I think you're just shrinking," I tease.

Mom smiles warmly up at me. "I wasn't expecting you guys till later tonight!"

"Eli's class got cancelled...and Ariana didn't have practice."

Mom seems to sense my hesitation on Ari's name, but if she notices anything, she doesn't say it. She clears her throat a bit. "It's good to have you home."

"It's good to be home." I swing an arm around her and tighten her against me. "Couldn't wait to get the birthday celebrations started!"

I lead her out to the foyer where Eli is carting in Ari's suitcase. The girl packed a whole big ass suitcase for 2 days. Figures.

"Cheeks!" Mom cries, running first to Ari. Eli stands there pouting.

"What am I, chopped liver?" Eli mutters.

Mom laughs a bit before pulling Eli into a group hug with Ari. I try to ignore the feeling that I'm not included for a reason and turn away, grabbing Ari's bag.

"Happy Birthday! I can't wait to celebrate! Are my parents here yet?" Ari asks excitedly.

"Cal is taking them to the office today. Is Owen with you?" she asks.

"He went to Aunt Gwen's and Uncle Zack's. He'll come with them later," I tell her.

"How was the flight?" Mom asks nervously. She hates flying. Always has.

Ari laughs a bit, as if remembering this fact about her. "Short!"

"I'll take your bag up," I tell Ari.

"I can get it," Ari quickly makes her way towards me.

I give her a look. "You can let me do one thing for you, Ariana."

"I don't need a man's help, Joshua."

Mom sighs loudly behind us. "Can you two just knock it off for one weekend?"

Eli bursts into knowing laughter.

I grumble swear words under my breath, remembering Ari's sincere face a few weeks ago when we agreed to the truce between us. I start up the stairs, her bag still in-hand. Ari skips after me, following me to her usual guest room here.