By the time the downstairs tour is over, I’m feeling less nervous at the prospect of meeting the family. Baxter smiles knowingly. He did the tour to allow me to calm down and prepare myself.
I’m about to say athank youwhen Chance comes out of the kitchen carrying a tray. His eyes drift over Baxter and I, then latch onto the place where my hand meets his brother’s arm.
His look darkens and I have the impulse to remove my hand. I resist though, and look at him askance.
“Dinner’s ready,” is all he says and goes ahead into the dining room.
“Shall we?” Baxter inclines his head, his smile still on despite Chance’s attitude.
“Yes.”
“Sure?”
I have the distinct feeling he won’t push it if I need more time to get ready. But I smile. “I’m ready, thank you.”
“It’s no problem at all.” He gestures toward the door. “This way, Miss Lowe.”
We walk through the door and instantly, the chatter ceases.
All gazes focus on Baxter and me. No, not Baxter who’s shadowing me. They’re all looking much lower at me.
I gulp.
Baxter places a supportive hand on my shoulder. “Everyone, meet Miss Maddie Lowe.”
“Just Maddie,” I add.
The girl next to an older lady quirks a smile.
“Meet Just Maddie,” Baxter amends to a few chuckles—none from Chance. “And Maddie, this is my dad, Dan Easton.”
Dan rises and I’m forced to cross the room and take the hand he stretches out.
Dan’s handshake is firm and his smile warm. “Welcome to our home, Maddie.”
“Thank you, sir.” I sound breathless.
“Not sir. Just Dan.”
“Just Dan?”
“Yes.”
“Okay, Just Dan.”
His smile grows and his eyes crinkle. He lets my hand go as Baxter introduces the next people at the table.
“This is our Aunt Felicia. And her daughter, Lucy, our cousin.” He ruffles Lucy’s hair to which she yells and rises to play-punch him.
I greet Aunt Felicia and she smiles.
“Lovely to have you, Maddie. I hope you like a good spicy chicken. I make the best.”
“It’s one of my favorites.”
When Lucy manages to subdue Baxter, she turns to me with a wide grin.
“Welcome to the family!”
