American Sweethearts

69

Holy shit... I think we might make it to 100k readers before I upload the last chapter 😱

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Lots of love, xoxo

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"Alright," Owen grins. "Everyone, glasses up."

We bring our cups into the air, patiently waiting for him to give his speech. The scent of burnt turkey fills up the entire room, but it's mixed with the smell of fresh plastic from our brand new dining table. While we were gone, the boys did a lot more than just clean the house. They went out, and bought an entire dining room table. It's one of those plastic sets you buy at Walmart. They're meant for outside of course, but it was the cheapest option, apparently.

I actually think it's nice. It matches the whole broke-college-student-vibe the rest of the apartment has.

"This year, we're thankful for each other," Owen says. "We've built a good, solid foundation here. With Lena and Sarah moving in, and Steph coming into the picture, we've built friendships I don't think we'll ever lose. We experienced new things, explored who we are, and grown as people. And I think that's pretty damn amazing."

We laugh at him, feeling his happiness radiate off him. I look around at the others, but they all look just as happy. Even Tyler. His arm is resting on the back of my chair, playing with the strands of my hair. He shoots m a cheeky wink, but then we turn our attention back to the group.

"I'd just like to add, that even though I think Thanksgiving is a horrible holiday and should've be celebrated," Lena says. "I'm really, really happy to be here with you guys. I couldn't ask for a better family."

"To family," Owen raises his glass a little higher.

"To family," we repeat, clinking our glasses together. Steph brought some fancy champagne to our dinner party, but we only had plastic cups. I don't think any of us care, though. The champagne is delicious, and my sister doesn't seem to mind me drinking.

"Now... does anyone know how to cut a turkey?" Owen asks.

"Cut a turkey?" Lena scoffs. "I'm pretty sure you mean carve."

"Carve?"

"Yes. You don't cut a turkey, you carve it."

"What the fuck?" he scowls. "That's some bullshit. Isn't it the same thing?"

"No, carve is the proper way."

"Fine... hands up if you think it's carve and not cut."

Everyone in the group raises their hands. We all share humorous glances, knowing we're right and Owen is wrong. It's definitely carve. Cut just sounds weird.

"Looks like you're outnumbered, bro," Lena teases.

"Whatever," he rolls his eyes. "Just cut the damn thing."

"Carve," we correct in unison, causing the whole group to burst out in laughter. Except for Owen. He slumps down in his seat.

"Are you done bullying me?" he complains. "You're all rude as fuck."

"Aw, I'm sorry," I say.

"Give me the knife," Stacey says. "I'll carve it."

"Thank you," Owen groans, handing her the tools. While she cuts it, I turn back to Tyler, but to my surprise, he's not smiling like the rest of us. He's staring down at his phone, only looking up at me once I place my hand on his knee.

"Hey," I whisper. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah, I, uh-," he cuts himself off. "Can I talk to you for a sec?"