His words are a puzzle piece that clicks into place. “You’re right. I’m going to stop by tonight. Faye’s working nights, so she’ll be about ready to head in to work.”
“Go. You won’t be much use to me here anyway.” He gestures toward the door of the bar.
“Are you sure?”
“It won’t be the only time I’ve had a few drinks by myself.”
“Thanks, man. I owe you.”
“Just keep me posted?”
“You know it.” Finishing my beer, I toss a tip on the counter and rise, making my way through the crowded bar. Singing along to the music, I tap on the steering wheel as I drive the familiar path to the condo. Parking, I hurry to her front door and knock. She opens the door with a frown that turns up quickly.
“James! What are you doing here?”
I cup her face and kiss her, stepping inside and shutting the door behind us with my foot. “I am crazy about you. I like what we have, but I want more. I don’t want to keep things casual. I want everyone to know you’re mine, and I want to be yours, Faye. We can take things as slowly as you need, but I’ve been swallowing the words for too long, and it’s driving me insane. If you feel the same way, please tell me.”
“I-I didn’t dare hope,” she whispers breathlessly. “I’ve wanted more for a while now, but I didn’t want to assume, or ...” She shakes her head.
“I want to be here for you and Flora.” I place my hand over her belly.
Closing her eyes, she smiles. “I want that, too, James. But are you sure? It’s a lot.”
I silence her with my lips, staking my claim. “You are my girls now, and I’m going to be sure you’re taken care of.” Her body melts into mine.
“Don’t make promises you can’t keep, James.”
“I won’t.” I kiss the crown of her head and feel home for the first time in years.
“ARE YOU OKAY?” I GLANCE down at her.
“Yes, I’m just nervous.”
I smile. “What’s the worst Warren could do?”
She grimaces. “I don’t want to think about it.”
“He’s a regular old cop, not a member of the SWAT team, right?” I say, suddenly nervous.
Her silence fills the room.
“Right?”
She laughs, and I scowl. “That was mean.”
“I figured I’d break the ice.”
“I’m not sure you accomplished that.”
Knock, knock. “He’s here.” She pushes herself off the couch and waddles to the door.
I smile, enjoying the sway of her body. It’s her birthday. We’re celebrating with dinner, followed by cake and presents. I know she misses her parents, but their berating and nagging is wearing her down. Firmly sided with Preston, they sing his praises and pick at her every chance they get. I’ve bitten my tongue about it since it wasn’t my place before. Now, as her official boyfriend, it’s only a matter of time before I speak out.
“Warren.” She throws her arms around the waist of the giant with similar shaped and colored eyes.
“Faye! Wow, you look bi—”