I expect more of her family will show up. I get the feeling that when Sally puts out the call, they come. Since we met, I’ve takenthem in stride, knowing they are a part of her life, and I have to accept it. Now, I’m enjoying it. The personalities are varied, and their gifts are vast. I can see myself within the mix. The best thing about it is that Mom and Issy will get the big family they have always wanted. It was always the three of us against the world. In giving them their dream, I get the woman of mine.
I stand straight as a shiny black car pulls to the curb. Walking forward, Mom doesn’t wait for me to open her door. She bursts out, her wide smile shining my way. I’ve always been amazed at the lust for life she has given all the shit she’s been through. She is dressed as she always is, in ripped jeans and a flannel unbuttoned over a tank top.
“My boy,” she gushes, throwing herself in my arms.
“Momma,” I respond, hugging her tight. “Missed you.”
“You look amazing. The mating bond has done you good.” She pulls away, gripping my arms. “Where is she?”
“She’s in the apartment.”
“Do I look okay?” she asks, releasing me, and smoothing her hands down her shirt.
“Perfect.” I grin. “Where are your bags?” The car pulls away.
“Issy arranged it. The service is delivering them to the hotel. I was wrinkled on the plane, so I stopped in the airport bathroom and changed.”
“Of course you did.” I shake my head, turn, and guide her toward the building. “I have to warn you.”
“What did you do?” she asks.
“What makes you think I did something?”
“I raised you,” she says dryly.
I roll my eyes. “I was saying, some of her family is here.”
“Oh, goody. We always wanted a big family.”
“I should have known that would be your response.” I open the door for her. “They are excited to welcome you.”
“I’m thrilled to be welcomed.” She laughs, almost skipping beside me.
“You have to promise me something,” I say, and press the button for the elevator.
“Anything.”
“Whatever you do, whatever they say, you won’t go out on the town with the rabbit,” I say seriously, and the doors slide open.
“Sally?” She enters the elevator, and I freeze.
“What? How do you—” Fuck, Issy. I hold out my arm as the doors begin to close, and join her inside.
“She called me last night. They were having a wonderful time. Why can’t I go?”
“Trouble. All of you would get in serious trouble.”
“Shit, I was getting into trouble long before you came along,” she snarks, crossing her arms.
“I don’t want to hear it.” I narrow my eyes.
“Son, I lived a life before kids.” She lifts her chin. “And after.”
“No.”
She rolls her eyes. “If I want to go out with Sally, I will.” She moves as we arrive on Rylee’s floor. “You have money for bail, right?” She smirks, and I point in the direction of the door.
“Fuck.”
