Lily elbows him softly, but he just laughs, grabbing her around the waist and pulling her into his chest.
I glance over to Mason, his back purposely to Avery, as she continues to talk animatedly to Aaron. But I swear the tension could be cut with a knife, it’s almost palpable.
“Don’t worry about it, sweet girl, whatever it is. This is your night,”Noah says softly.
He’s right, of course. Tonight is about celebrating Obsidian Rose Cuisine and everything that has led to this moment and making sure everyone is enjoying themselves.
“Thank you,”I say to Caleb and Noah when I find us alone briefly. “I couldn’t have done any of this without you, you know that, right?”I try in vain not to let my emotions get the best of me and swallow down the urge to cry.
“You don’t have to thank us, sweet girl... but I mean, if you want to show us, we’ll be up for that,”Noah says with a wink, lightening the moment.
Caleb spins me in his arms until my back is pressed against his chest. “In fact, maybe we should help you christen the restaurant after everyone leaves.”
“You’re insatiable,”I reply, unable to ignore the goosebumps that break out over my skin. I couldn’t be more grateful to be loved by these two wonderful men.
Chapter Five
NOAH
Between Caleb and me, we were only half joking about her showing us her appreciation, but it worked because she’s currently in her element being a fantastic hostess. Everything is perfect, and I wouldn’t say that if I didn’t mean it. Everything down to the most simple of touches, nothing has been left unaccounted for, and it shows in the presentation and attention to detail.
Not to mention the food, which is chef’s kiss perfection.
I can’t help but worry about Aspen. She was clingy when I left her earlier today. She’s also been very pushy, nudging me, and jumping up and pawing at me a lot more lately, yet her training is going well.
Maybe I’ll give Ryan a call and ask how she’s doing. He fostered Aspen before we adopted her, apart from him and Maggie there’s no one else we’re comfortable leaving her with.
We’ll be picking her up on our way home, hence why Caleb drove us here in the Cayenne. But I don’t know. I’m just worried about her. Is that a thing? Dad guilt over leaving her even though I know she’s in good hands?
My hand moves to my chest, beneath my suit jacket and around towards my armpit, where it feels slightly swollen. I think maybe I’ve strained myself while working out. I rub at the area but drop my hand when I hear Caleb’s voice.
“Are you alright?” he asks as he approaches, glancing at the way I’m leaning against the wall in the small hallway that is for staff only.
“Of course. Just contemplating calling Ryan to check on Aspen,” I admit.
His eyes soften as I push off the wall, and his hand goes to my nape.
“She’s probably fine, but if it makes you feel better, there’s no harm in checking just to be sure.”
I smile. He might not admit it, but Aspen has him wrapped around her paw just as much as me and Jessica.
“Then you’re needed back out there so we can make a toast to our girl.” He leans in, giving me a chaste kiss before turning back the way he came.
Pulling out my phone, I bring up Ryan’s number, and the call connects on the second ring.
“I thought you would have rung sooner,” he says, humour lacing his voice upon answering.
“Was I that obvious when I dropped her off?” I ask, leaning back against the wall.
He laughs. “Just a tad. There was a little separation anxiety there for a minute, but she’s all good now. She’s running around with Marlo.”
I nod, that’s good at least. “Oh, thanks man. I was just worried, she seemed a little clingy before I drove off.”
“I’m sure once she realises you’ll always be there to pick her up and bring her home, she’ll be more settled.”
He’s probably right, she’s a rescue after all.
“Now go, get back to Caleb and Jessica, and tell her again I said congratulations. Vanessa and I look forward to coming there once it’s officially opened.”
