Despite the number of Holt siblings, they were all bachelors. Grace was especially worried about her sons. The main reason for returning to their hometown for the holidays was to arrange potential matches for them. All five sons, except for Seven, were well past the typical marrying age and didn’t even have girlfriends.
As a mother, she didn't want to be worrying about her sons' love lives on her deathbed. Now, with her eldest son’s future settled, she decided she would go to Summer’s family the very next day to formally propose marriage on his behalf.
The more Grace looked at Summer, the more pleased she was. She pulled a gold bracelet from her pocket and pressed it into Summer’s hand.
“This is a welcome gift from your uncle and me. Our eldest is a man of few words, but he’s very thoughtful. If he ever bullies you, you tell me, or tell Nina. I’ll take care of him for you,” she said, shooting a stern glance at Easton.
Easton felt his face flush. “Mom, I’d be too busy cherishing her. How could I ever bully her?” he mumbled, scratching his head in embarrassment.
Just then, Janina and the other Holt siblings trooped in from outside, all grinning from ear to ear.
“Don’t worry, Summer,” they chorused. “If our Easton ever gives you a hard time, we’ll all be on your side to beat him up.”
Janina gave her a big hug. “From friend to sister-in-law. Welcome to our big family.”
The others crowded around, each adding their own words of welcome. Summer was deeply moved by the warmth and affection of this large family. Her own family was small, and she had never experienced the lively, bustling atmosphere of a home like the Holts’.

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