My eyebrows rise.
“She’s …” I’m not even sure he realises that he’s trailed off until I tilt my head and study him closely.
“Oh, it’s like that, is it?” I tease.
“She’s amazing. I went out to lunch at that place you told me about—Malone’s?”
I nod.
“Our orders got mixed up, and next thing we’re sitting at the same table having swapped, and …” He beams. “We’re going out next weekend.”
Reaching out, I give his shoulder a squeeze. My boy took on so much more responsibility than he should ever have needed to over the years. It’s good to see him cut loose and find his feet.
“I’m happy for you. It’s time you found someone who makes your heart sing.”
“Like Mum does for you?”
I crack a smile. “She’s the only one who ever did.”
“I’m so glad I came here with her—found you. I wish we’d had all those years, but better late than never, right?”
“Agreed. I’m so proud of the man you’ve become. I couldn’t ask for a better son.”
His eyes—so much like mine are full of emotion. “Thanks, Dad. I’d like to think I take after you.”
“Only the good bits. The rest of you is your mother.” I smile. “No, most of you is your mother. Apart from being as handsome as I am.”
He laughs. “You’re so modest.”
“As long as your mum loves me, that’s all that really matters.”
We sit in silence for a moment. The sun sinks lower in the sky, and I take another sip of beer.
“Is … Is that offer of a job still open?”
I study him closely. While we’re close now, he’s resisted my attempts at getting him to work for me. I still use an external accountant, but if Noah wants it, I’ve offered him the job of CFO of my company.
I love him and I trust him.
“Always.” I clink my bottle with his. “You ready to work for me?”
He nods. “I think I am.”
“Just let me know when and I’ll be ready.”
“Thanks, Dad.”
“I’d do anything for you, Noah. I hope you know that.”
He smiles. “I know. I’m so glad we came here and met you.”
“Me too.”
Sitting in the silence, looking at the night sky, I’m content—more settled than I have been in years.
This is the life.
Making love to my wife is a regular occurrence now.
