Standing There (Love in the Park 1)

“You can bet I’ll never do that. She’s my princess.”

“Well, now that you boys got that out of your system where is my future daughter-in-law?” my mother says, walking past us looking around the staircases.

“She’s baking in the kitchen.”

“I’m betting she’s trying to straighten up before you all see the mess she’s made,” Katherine teases.

Brent laughs lightly shaking his head. “Yep and she can make a mess.”

I push the kitchen door and see the kitchen and my pretty little blonde covered in flour. She blows her hair out of her face. “I swear it will taste better than I look.”

“Fuck, it’s going to be delicious.” I’m staring at her like she’s on the menu. Well once everyone leaves she’ll be my dessert. I groan because my cock needs to be in her. I walk around the counter where she’s finishing the design on the pie she’s about to put in the oven, and I slide my hands around her waist. “Baby, I’d like to introduce you to my parents, Diane and Edmond Wolf, and you’ve met my sister Casey very briefly.”

“Hello,” she says, wiping her hands on the bottom of her apron. She comes around, leaving my arms to shake their hands. That’s not going to do for my mother. She pulls Lindsay into a hug.

“Oh no, I’ve gotten flour all over you.”

“Nonsense I did it. Besides, it’s so lovely to see someone who can take care of Roman.”

“Yeah, I didn’t know he had stuff in here for baking.”

“He didn’t. He sent his men to the store,” she complains, crossing her arms.

“Good, Linds, it’s still not safe out there for you,” Brent reminds her, making the gut punch a little more tolerable.

“See, I told you, baby.” I come around and stand behind her. She glares at me then smiles up at me, so I steal a kiss. Fuck who’s around, she’s mine.

“Okay, let’s go play some pool while dinner’s cooking,” my dad says.

“I’m all for that,” Brent cheers. Katherine adds, “Me too. Men, please go play. Lindsay and I have a lot to talk about.” I’m not sure if Katherine and Brent are a thing, but he’s definitely worried about the two of them talking alone. That look on his face said a fuck ton.

“Fine, Lindsay, are you okay without me?”

“Yes, Roman. This is my area of expertise. Go have fun.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, now shoo.” We leave them alone, and I lead them to the game area. Brent’s eyes widen at this room. I haven’t really used it because I haven’t been here long, but it’s going to be great for Lindsay and me and any kids we have.

“What’s up with you and Katherine?” I ask him, pulling out the balls and rack.

“Nothing. She’s just my sister’s friend.” He sounds put off about it. I let it go and rack up.

Chapter 15

Lindsay

I do my best to act normal around Roman’s mother. She’s amazingly sweet, but this is all new to me, and I’m afraid to make a mistake. “So what gossip do you have for Lindsay?” Casey asks. “Is it about Lindsay’s hot brother?”

“No. It’s about your hot brother?” Katherine snarks and Casey sticks her finger in her mouth pretending to gag.

My bestie picks up a cookie from the jar on the counter, and I ask, “What’s up, Katherine?”

“I don’t know. I just wanted them to leave us alone. I’ve spent three days in your brother’s presence, and he’s been a total pain in the ass, but they wouldn’t let me leave. I’ve been stealing your clothes since I can’t go back to my place.”

“No biggie. Sorry, Brent is being an ass. Guys act crazy when they are goofy over a girl.” Katherine drops the cookie on the counter.

“What do you mean goofy over a girl? Your brother isn’t interested in me. He’s like a big brother who thinks he knows what’s best for me.” She rolls her eyes, but Mrs. Wolf and I share a look. She’s blinder than a bat to it.

“Well, I think he’s so hot. I wonder if he is looking for a date. I’m sure it would piss Roman off.”

“He’s not interested in dating he said,” she bit out with more venom than a rattler. I’ve never seen her like that before, and it makes me happy. She’s perfect for Brent’s quiet, steadfast nature.

“Fine, well we’ll see if he’s willing to change his mind,” Casey remarks, looking at herself with her phone.

“Excuse me. I have to use the restroom.” Katherine disappears, leaving the room rapidly.

“Casey, you’re such a brat,” Mrs. Wolf scolds, swatting Casey’s hand.

“Come on, Mom. It’s fun. Maybe they’ll make a move on each other.”

Rolling my eyes with a smirk, I remind them, “I need to finish dinner.”

“Okay, we’ll help. After all, I want to impress your brother.” Casey sways her hips and gives her curls a fluff with her hand.