Cole wrung his hands together. He made the first step in asking Leah to be his date for the wedding, but what would happen afterwards? His forehead creased.
“Does she know?” his mother asked.
He swallowed. “What are you talking about?”
His mother’s eyes narrowed at him. “You can’t fool your mother. I know my sons like the back of my hand. As for you, I’m referring to Leah. Does she know that you’re in love with her?”
A chill went through Cole. “Mom, Leah and I have been—”
“Friends, I know.” She bobbed in her head in plain agreement. “You used to hang out after school and study here in my living room. Not to mention you would sneak some of my chocolate chip cookies.”
“Her idea, not mine.”
She set his plate on the kitchen island. “All I know is I’ve never seen you light up before the way you do around her.”
The pit of his stomach fell along with his gaze. “Seth still has feelings for her.”
“Does Leah know?”
“She says they’re friends, but I know Seth. If he wants her, he won’t relent. I’ll lose like I did the last time.”
His mother reached over and patted his hand. “Why don’t you tell her? See how she feels.”
“I wanted to so many times. Even when she came by for her photos today, I…”
His mother tilted her head toward him. “She’ll never know unless you tell her.”
“Hopefully, I can do that this weekend.”
“This weekend?” her eyes sparkled. “You mean at Holly’s wedding?”
“I asked Leah to go with me. I don’t know what will happen, but I want it to be a start.”
“Your father and I were planning ongoing, but he has a surprise for me.”
Cole folded his arms across his chest. “Still the romantic, huh?”
“He’s a little challenged in that department, but I love him. I’ve gotten some interesting gifts over the years from your father.”
“He hasn’t been back by my studio.” Cole’s shoulders tensed, and his mother gave him a comforting pat.
“I’m proud of you. I always wanted you to be happy.”
“And Dad?”
“That’s his way. He needs time to get used to the idea.”
Cole rolled his eyes. “How much time does he need? I’m almost thirty.”
His mother’s eyes narrowed at him.
He sighed. “I didn’t mean that the way it sounded.”
“I know, but you two will find some common ground soon.”
“And if we don’t?”
His mother tapped her fingers to her lips. “I’ll protest.”