The Ex-Husband of Alice Langley

41

TAYLOR SWIFT
The Fourth of July at my place is always a big deal, and this year is no different, except I've dialed it back a little for Paris and Lauren. They arrived with Clara in tow, and it's impossible not to notice the change. Clara, a little over three months old, is the star of the show. Friends and family crowd around, all eager to hold and cuddle her, but there's a clear set of rules. No kisses, absolutely no kisses yet. I get it—they're first-time parents and so overprotective, it's almost adorable. Every tiny sound Clara makes has them on high alert, like the world's about to end.

I knew they'd be here, so I made sure to cut down the guest list, keeping it intimate. It's not the wild, packed scene I'd normally host, but it's worth it. I'd do anything for my daughter's comfort and my granddaughter's safety. Paris and Lauren, being the doctors they are, know every detail about RSV and the risks. They're well-informed and cautious, which is both impressive and a little funny. I'm just grateful they trust me enough to bring Clara, even with all their worries.

"Let's let great grandma hold her great-grandbaby," my mom says, her arms reaching out as she beams with warmth. Her smile is wide and genuine, radiating joy that only a grandparent can possess. Paris hesitates for a moment, her brow furrowing in concentration as she carefully transfers Clara into my mom's arms. The transfer is slow and deliberate, as if they're passing a fragile treasure. Paris watches closely, her maternal instincts kicking in as she ensures my mom's grip is secure and her hands are in the right position to support Clara's delicate head.

"Okay, just like that," Paris instructs, her voice gentle but firm. "Make sure you support her neck." She stays close, her eyes locked onto Clara as if she's ready to swoop in at a moment's notice, ready to rescue her little girl from any potential mishap.

My mom nods, adjusting her hold slightly, a playful smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I've done this before, you know," she says with a chuckle, though she takes Paris's advice seriously. As Clara's eyes flutter open for a moment, she takes in her surroundings before snuggling into the warmth of my mom's arms, her tiny body relaxing as she seeks comfort.

"Four generations of Swifts in one room," I say, feeling a swell of pride and nostalgia wash over me. The atmosphere is filled with love, laughter, and a sense of belonging that ties us all together. I look at my mom, and she looks back at me, her eyes misty with emotion, reflecting the weight of this moment.

"It's a beautiful thing," she says softly, rocking Clara gently, her movements slow and soothing. "To see this, to hold my great-granddaughter... it's a blessing." Her voice trembles with sentiment, and I can feel the depth of her affection for Clara radiating throughout the room.

Paris finally relaxes, the tension in her shoulders dissipating as a small smile forms on her lips. She watches her grandmother bond with Clara, a mix of awe and relief in her expression. "Yeah, it is," she murmurs, her gaze softening as she reaches out to touch Clara's little hand, marveling at how tiny and perfect it is. "It really is." In this moment, the worries of the world fade away, leaving only the pure, unadulterated love of family.

Lauren walks up to me and gently taps me on the shoulder, her expression serious. "Hey, can I talk to you? In private?"

I nod, curiosity bubbling in my chest as I follow her away from the crowd. The laughter and chatter of the party fade into the background, but then I realize Travis is trailing behind us.

"What is it?" I ask, concern lacing my voice. The sudden shift in Lauren's demeanor has me on edge.

She hesitates, her hands fidgeting as she pulls out a small, velvet box from her pocket. The sunlight catches the fabric, and for a moment, my heart races with anticipation. As she opens it, revealing a stunning diamond ring nestled inside, my breath catches in my throat.