Traction (The Driven World)

“I’m tired. I’ll see you in the morning,” I tell her before pushing to my feet and giving her a goodnight kiss. In my bedroom, I shut myself inside and focus on the happiness from the date tonight rather than the heartache.

Tomorrow, I’ll be able to see Kayden in the light.

And hopefully, we can get to know each other better.12KaydenThe sun is hidden behind clouds when I pull up outside Haelee’s home five minutes before nine. When I woke up this morning, I had second thoughts on taking her to my special place, but I promised, so I’m going to keep it.

I’ve hardly ever met any of the families of any girl I’ve been with previously, but with her, I want to do it right. Not because I am thinking about a long-term future just yet, but because we work together, and I want to prove to her that I’m not the judgmental prick she thinks I am. Also, I need to make up for our first meeting.

The frustration of the day had gotten to me, and the embarrassment of losing to a girl had me angry. She’s good, and I couldn’t see it that day through the prominent frustration that had taken hold of me.

It’s no excuse, and I need to show her I’m not usually like that. When I reach the door, I knock twice, holding the bouquet of flowers in my hand I hope her mother will like.

My chest is tight, anxiousness taking hold of me when I’m finally met with Haelee’s pretty, cocoa eyes. She’s gorgeous in a pair of tight blue jeans, her Vans sneakers, and a gray hoodie that makes her look like a bad girl in a hip-hop video.

“Hey, speedy.” I greet her with a smile, which she returns as she plants a chaste kiss on my cheek.

“Hi, come inside,” she says, stepping aside to allow me in. The house is modern yet has a homely feel with soft accents of off-white and brown and a fireplace I can see from the entrance foyer. “My mom is in the kitchen, making something to eat.” Her gaze falls to the flowers, and she smiles.

“They’re for your mom. I didn’t bring you any because I don’t know which your favorite is. Yet.” I tack on the last word, hoping she’ll notice it before a woman comes through from the kitchen and smiles at me.

“Hello, Kayden,” she says with a friendly grin, holding out her hand to me. “I’m Caroline, Haelee’s mom.”

“It’s so good to meet you,” I respond, then offer her the flowers. “I brought these for you. I hope you’re not allergic,” I continue, realizing I should have checked with Haelee beforehand.

“They’re gorgeous. I’m not at all allergic, and you’re welcome to bring some any time you visit,” Caroline tells me. She brings the pink roses to her nose and takes a long inhale as a smile spreads across her face.

“Come,” Haelee whispers excitedly, and we move through the living room, which I note is warm and welcoming, into a kitchen with modern appliances, along with a black marble countertop filled with three mugs, a large bowl of fresh fruit, and a French press.

“I made some coffee. If you youngsters aren’t in a rush, you’re welcome to have a mug before you leave,” Caroline invites, and I nod. Rushing out of here with her daughter wouldn’t look gentlemanly, and I want to make a good first impression.

“Of course,” I agree. “I take mine black with two sugars.”

With a smile, she pours the dark, steaming brew and passes me the sugar along with the mug. We settle on the high stools with our drinks before Caroline asks, “So, Haelee tells me you’re a racer as well.”

“I am. I have been since I was about sixteen. My dad used to pay for me to race on a Sunday afternoon while the track wasn’t being used. It was the only time I truly felt happy.”

“And are your folks happy with your choice of career?” I knew this question was coming. And as much as I don’t always want to talk about my dad, I know that setting her mind at ease is a good thing.

“My dad passed away three months ago, but he was proud of me. He supported my choice, although at times begrudgingly. He wanted me to take over the family business, which is more into finance, and it’s not my area of expertise.”

My honesty is responded to with a friendly smile. “I’m sorry to hear you lost your dad as well. Haelee’s father was a good man. He was the reason she got into racing, and even though I didn’t like it, being so dangerous, he always ensured she was safe.” I can tell she misses her husband. The pain in her blue eyes flickers with the heartbreak of losing the love of your life.