“You both made a mistake. Lying and sneaking around is never good,” Ellie said. “But it seems like you’re even with each other now. But the important thing is to come clean with Chuck and Deena. Set things right so they can be happy together.”
Cole glanced at Sam. “Maybe it’s not too late.”
Sam jumped up. “You’re right. We have to find our parents and set the record straight.”
She headed for the door, turning to look at Cole. “Are you with me?”
“Yeah. I’d hate to have ruined things for my dad.”
“So I guess you’re not taking me into custody right away, then?” Hugh asked hopefully.
Cole stopped and glanced back, looking torn between leaving with Sam or arresting Hugh. Ellie waved him off. “Don’t worry. I’m not letting him go anywhere. He has a promise to fulfill for Gina first thing in the morning. After that, he’s all yours.”
Cole nodded at Hugh. “I guess you’re going to get a small reprieve. Don’t worry, though. Ellie will keep you in line.”
CHAPTER29
Sam had been worried that they’d ruined her mother’s and Chuck’s relationship for good, but it turned out nothing was further from the truth. They were sitting in Deena’s living room after having both texted their parents. It turned out their parents were a lot smarter than they were and had already figured out that everything was just a misunderstanding.
“So you see, we each messaged each other and then discovered it was just a bunch of misunderstandings.” Chuck grabbed Deena’s hand. “I’m sorry I ever doubted you, dear.”
“I’m sorry too.” Deena beamed at Chuck.
And he looked at her with that look of total love. Sam should’ve known when she’d seen him look at her like that before that all her suspicions were about nothing.
“I’m sorry I started it all.” Sam put her coffee cup down. “And I’m really sorry I took your wallet, Chuck. That was totally stepping over the line, and I was a jerk. Can you guys forgive me?”
“Of course, dear,” Deena said. “We understand that the two of you were just trying to protect us.”
Sam glanced over at Cole, who looked tongue-tied and embarrassed. “I really was. At least I thought I was. But I should’ve known better. I should have butted out and let my dad handle his own business. And I’m sorry that I introduced doubt into your relationship.” He glanced at Sam, and his heart flipped. “I’m sorry that I doubted you, too, Sam.”
“And Chuck, for what it’s worth, I really do like you. You obviously treat my mom like gold, and I’d be happy to have you as my stepdad.” Sam felt a little teary-eyed at Chuck’s grateful look.
“Me too, Deena,” Cole said. “You’ve been so nice to me since I’ve been here, and I treated you rotten. I’m delighted you make my dad happy, and I’m happy that you’re in our lives.”
“Well, it’s a good thing you both feel that way because…” Deena held up her left hand, where the diamond ring sparkled. “We’re getting married.”
Sam jumped to her feet. “Congratulations!”
Chuck gave Sam a hug. Then Sam hugged her mom, whispering, “I truly wish the best of happiness for the two of you.”
Cole was on his feet, too, hugging his father. Then Chuck kissed Deena, and Deena kissed Sam. Sam kissed Chuck. Deena kissed Cole. Then Cole kissed Sam.
Wait a minute. How did that happen?
But Sam had to admit even though it was an awkward moment they all laughed off, the small peck of a kiss felt right. And when she pulled back and looked up at Cole, she thought for a split second he gave her the same look Chuck had given her mother.
“Well, I’m happy to see the two of you getting along,” Deena said after witnessing the kiss. Sam’s cheeks burned.
“Me too,” Chuck said.
“There is one thing,” Deena said.
“What’s that?” Sam asked.
Deena held up her finger with the big sparkly ring. “Once we’re married, the two of you are going to be brother and sister.”
CHAPTER30
