Knowing that’s her way of deflecting, I let her get away with it.
“Not yet, babygirl. You get some and I’ll be right behind you.”
I watch her get her food and head over to Ma and Pa’s table. She really doesn’t see how her presence lights up people. What I overheard her say earlier to Mads comes to mind.
“I’ve lived my life in the background. That’s where my mom always put me and where I’m comfortable. I’m a great wingman. In the background, I can read my books, do my job, and live my little life. I’m the side character in the books we love but never get their story, and you know what? I don’t mind that. Not everyone is main character energy, nor can everyone be.”
If she only knew the amount of times she has been the main and sole focus of my dreams lately. I grab my plate of food and a new beer and head over to sit in the empty spot next to my woman.
“Now, Jane, we have many available young men for you to choose from here. I just know any of them would be lucky to go out with you. I know my Mick is as single as they come. Anyway, I could set the two of you up?”
“Now, Rom—” I’m interrupted by a squeeze on my thigh.
“Romona, as sweet as that offer is, I’m going to have to pass. I’m just starting to see someone. It’s new but I’m excited for where it might go.”
“Well, you just let me know if that changes. I know many of us have young men who are available and we would all love to have you as a daughter-in-law.”
“Yes, ma’am. So, have you guys always had these family days?”
That question sends the old bunch off on a long story with their new captive audience.
I feel her hand about to leave my thigh. I grab it with my hand and squeeze before I let her go. She sure did keep me in check. I don’t think anyone else would have gotten away with it. Damn this woman.
The rest of the afternoon is spent visiting with the brothers and family, and enjoying the day. When I have the prospects bring out Jane’s treats, I swear there’s a run for the table. The amount of cupcakes and cookies she threw together last night is amazing. I did manage to sneak a couple of the chocolate peanut butter cupcakes for myself.
Around eight or so, people start moving the chairs around the campfire and Juan and Mick get it going. I see Rory grabbing a chair next to Jane and they look to be in a deep conversation.
Jane
This has been a great day. Getting to know everyone and seeing that this is all really a big family is heartwarming. The surprise of Rory coming home tops everything else. As everyone is getting chairs to sit around the fire that Juan is starting, I slip on my ever-present hoodie and take a seat. Someone sits next to me.
“So, how has your first family day gone, beautiful?”
That voice of his could melt molasses in wintertime, I tell you.
“It’s been great. The get-together itself has been fun, meeting everyone and being introduced to more of your family. The best part by far was you coming home today. Did you have any idea you were going to get out early? I got something for you, for when you got out. It’s at my house since I didn’t know I would be lucky enough to see you this soon.”
“You didn’t have to get me anything. I’m just happy to get to spend some of my free time with you.”
“I know I didn’t have to get you anything. It’s not something huge, but I wanted to. You’ll have to come over for dinner soon so I can give it to you.”
“Beautiful, just say when. I have a very open schedule.”
“Well, I’m sure Ma is going to want to have you over for dinner tomorrow night, but I would love to make dinner Monday night if you like?” I really hope he wants to spend as much time with me as I want to spend with him. I feel the same way whenever I hang out with Jon and Juan. I just hope I can handle the hurt when they figure out I’m not that special.
“I would love to have dinner with you, beautiful. Tomorrow I’m going to see about getting a phone. When I do, I will get your number from one of the Js and call you about the time and all.”
I nod my agreement. I spend the next couple of hours listening to the men of this club regale stories of past adventures and mishaps in dating. Juan is a natural storyteller and Ry plays off him well. I don’t think I have laughed that much in a long time. Looking at my watch, I realize I need to get home to let Tyger out. I say my goodbyes to all who are left and start walking over to where my car is parked. I’m about halfway across the yard when I hear my name.
“Jane! Wait up, darlin’.”
Turning my head, I see Juan coming in my direction.
“Just because I can’t kiss you goodbye or give you a ride home just yet doesn’t mean I’d let you walk to your car in the dark by yourself, baby.”
I smile back at his sexy-as-hell grin with that dimple that I’ve thought about licking more times than I’ll admit.
“I won’t turn down that kind of company. Thank you guys for making me feel so welcome.”
