I watch in amusement as his eyes widen when they land on Heidi. “Jesus Christ, you’ve grown up.”
Heidi reverts to her five-year-old self, blushing and ducking her head.
“You even remember who I am?” Grinder asks.
“Of course I remember you.” She reaches up to give him a hug. “Welcome home, Grinder.”
I swear his eyes water from the contact. Uncomfortable as hell to watch a man you’ve looked up to get emotional.
They introduce him to Alexa. “Well, don’t you look just like your momma did.”
Heidi beams. “You think so?”
“Absolutely,” he answers. I seem to be the only one who notices the grief invading his voice. Going to prison ended his marriage, and he never had children. A bunch of rowdy bikers to discipline doesn’t count.