“I’d also like to apologize, Ryder,” he continues, appearing uneasy as he tries to read my expression. “I haven’t always been the best dad. Truth be told, I’ve been a pretty shitty one. And, well…” He shifts from one shiny loafer to the other. “I’m hoping it’s not too late to change that?”
Holy shit.My heart expands after he says the words I’ve longed to hear for so damn long. Talk about a kid on Christmas morning. It’s like I’ve just been given a gift I’ve been wishing for forever. “Can I be honest now, too?”
He nods, and I can see both curiosity and trepidation in his eyes. He knows he’s been an ass to me, but I’m not feeling the urge to act in kind. I’m sure there will be time for hashing out his prior bad behavior later. Right now, catching flies with honey sounds like a better gamble.
“I came here to steal a map from you,” I admit. “Now, I’m hoping you’ll just give it to me. In the spirit of making amends—and since it technically belongsto me, anyway.”
His brow furrows in confusion. “A map?”
“To the collapsed, totally worthless mine you gave me on my twelfth birthday,” I coolly remind him. I’m not totally letting him off the hook for being a jerk to me for years. “You know, instead of that puppy I wanted.”
Something flashes in his brown eyes. “It’s not worthless, Ryder. Not even close. And I gave it to you to keep it safe so your mother couldn’t take it during the divorce. And then to keep it away from Wanda.”
Huh. Well, that’s news to me. But color me shocked he didn’t want the women in his life getting a hold of it.
“I’m sorry, son. I know I’ve messed up, but I’m really hoping you can forgive me.”
I’d like that, too. So damn much. But that will depend on several things.
One step at a time.
Chapter Seventeen: Delaney
My eyes flood with tears the moment Ryder and his dad stretch out their hands and shake hard, slapping each other’s arms. It’s definitely a step in the right direction. I didn’t come in here expecting to see a family reunion, but that’s exactly what’s happening. Seeing them reconnect makes me so hopeful for them, and even more grateful for the amazing relationship I had with my dad.
“Maybe I should step out,” I say quietly, wanting to give them more privacy, but when I turn to leave, Ryder reaches for me.
“No, please stay.” He pulls me closer, wrapping an armaround my waist.
Our job has definitely become a lot easier now that Ryder and his dad have talked. His father tells us to follow him to the library and, on the way, we run into Linc. The big guy is supposed to accompany us to the safe and crack it open, and he arches a questioning brow.
“My dad is getting us the map,” Ryder murmurs.
“I’ll let Addie and the others know.” Linc turns, fading into the crowd like the pro he is.
To be honest, I’m a tiny bit disappointed. I wanted to see the world-renowned safecracker do his thing. But I’m so delighted for Ryder, I’ll let it slide. I glance up at him, and he has a joy surrounding him that he didn’t have before. Family can do that—whether found or blood.
The library is just as impressive as the rest of the house. Maybe even more so with its cathedral ceilings and three walls filled with bookshelves.Wow.It’s a booklover’s dream. Complete with rolling ladders and cozy couches to lounge on. I could stay in this room for a year and happily read one book after another. Well, as long as I had Ryder with me.
Looking up, I study his handsome profile while his dad opens the safe and retrieves a pile of documents. I’m not sure why anyone is allowed to be so goodlooking, but my stomach flutters when he turns and smiles at me.Gah.There’s no way I’m not falling for this man. As much as I’ve fought it and tried to keep my distance and be smart about the situation, I can’t deny the attraction.
And it’s so much more than skin deep. It’s the way he makes me feel like I’m the only person in his orbit. How he introduced me to his dad like I’m someone who matters, not just some side gig eye-candy for a party. How he brought me to his friends, supporting and protecting me against their suspicions and doubts. It’s all incredibly seductive, but it’s also comforting.
Whenever I used to think about my future, it consisted of me being alone. I never planned on meeting anyone special or falling in love. I’ve never been in love, and truthfully, I didn’t think my cool heart was capable of such deep emotion for a man.
But standing here beside Ryder, I realize he could be the one who changes all that. It’s a very scary thing to consider. At the same time, it might be really nice to have him by my side and not have to always face the world alone.
Arthur finds the paperwork he’s looking for and flips through it. I force myself to turn off my meandering thoughts. They’re heading fast into mushy territory and, right now, on the cusp of something as huge as the rumored lost diamond cache, I need to stay focused on the job.
Arthur hands the bundled papers to Ryder. “I truly believe the rest of the Phantom Orchid is down there. But after several of the tunnels collapsed, I decided to board it up and pretend it was worthless. Yes, it was a ploy to keep others out, but I won’t lie and say it’s safe to explore. In fact, it’s extremely dangerous.” He gives Ryder a stern lookof warning, but his eyes soften when he says, “I guess I always hoped you and I could travel back there one day and explore it. Find the adventure and make it worth the risk.” Regret lines his face. “I’m so sorry, Ryder.” He heaves out a sigh. “There’s so much I’ve done wrong, son.”
A wave of emotion crosses Ryder’s face, and my heart clenches. “Oh, for God’s sake, hug it out!” I cry, and they both laugh. Then they embrace—something they may have never done before—and my gaze blurs. I’m not sure when I became so emotional, but seeing Ryder reconnect with his dad is melting my heart.
“What do you need to help with your expedition?” Arthur asks, a hint of excitement in his businesslike tone. “I can wire funds or provide transportation or—”
“We’re good, Dad. Thank you.” He takes my hand. “We should get going, though. My team is waiting.”
His father nods. “Alright, but if you need anything, please ask. And, Ryder?”
