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“He is,” I replied smoothly.
Jayce leaned back on the couch and placed his arms over the top, ticking his head in my direction. “Out with it, little mama. Don’t hold back now. Not that I think you will.” Amusement danced in his eyes, but I wasn’t falling for all his charm and charisma right now.
“How do you know Noah so well?”
“Well,” he answered, appearing right at home in my living room, “I do, and I don’t. You see he’s been popping into my garage for weeks. We talk a lot. He’s pretty protective over his mama.”
Dumbfounded, I nearly lost track of the purpose of this conversation. “What does he say?”
“He talks about school, friends, and how you’re both supposed to be happy now.” Jayce didn’t come right out and ask but the question was there.
I didn’t elaborate. Wasn’t the right time for this story and probably never would be. The ghost said to keep things simple when people asked. Less info meant less chance of being found. I didn’t have any intention of leading Chet to me and Noah. My lips were sealed.
“Does he go into your house?”
“Fuck no,” Jayce blurted, looking slightly offended. “I don’t invite little boys or kids into my home. I’m no pedophile.”
Relieved, I knew he wasn’t in my gut, but I had to hear it. “I didn’t think you were.”
Jayce nodded. “Good. Kid talks about the Mandalorian a lot too.”
“It’s his favorite.” I gestured to the bedroom. “He’s so happy in that room.” Tears sprang to my eyes and I blinked them rapidly away.
“You know,” Jayce began as he dropped his arms and leaned closer. “I’m pretty good at keepin’ secrets. Just in case you feel the need to unburden yourself.”
I didn’t. Maybe that would change with time. I wasn’t sure. “If it comes to that I’ll let you know.”
Jayce nodded and stood. “It’s getting late. My dog needs fed or he’s gonna tear up my house since I’ve been gone so long.”
“Sure.”
We lingered in that awkward silence that was proof neither of us wanted to end the evening, but both were unsure where to proceed from here. I liked Jayce and it wasn’t just the muscles, tattoos, and killer smile. He had this protective and caring side to him that seemed to resonate deep inside with me. A man who took care of his own and those he cared about.
I wasn’t used to that. It wasn’t what I’d known, and I found myself wishing for the opportunity to take Jayce up on all he kept hinting at. Problem was, he didn’t strike me as the kind of man who stayed tied down to only one woman. I had a son. And worse, I had a horrific track record with men.
Relationships? I didn’t even know where to start.
“You’re thinking hard there, sugar.”
Gnawing on my bottom lip with my teeth, I nodded. “You’re right.”
“Can’t pretend to understand the situation you’re in. I don’t know the circumstances that brought you to Tonopah, but I do know I want to explore what’s there between us.”
“Why?” I asked, almost blurting the question. “I’m a single mom. A package deal.” I waved a hand at him. “You don’t seem the type who wants to deal with extra baggage.”
He frowned and his eyes darkened. I must have offended him. “Because I’m old enough to be your father? Or because I’m a biker in a 1-percenter club? I don’t assume shit with you, little mama. I sure as hell ain’t breathing down your neck or judging you. Been through enough to understand where you’re coming from. Just askin’ for a chance, sugar.”
Swallowing hard, I blinked and stepped a little closer. “I don’t think you’re old, Jayce. But yes, the biker part has me worried. I have an impressionable 8-year-old. He’s not had a good example when it comes to a father.” I wouldn’t say more, and Jayce would have to understand.
“Where is he? Did he abandon you both?”
Damn. Was it better that Jayce believed a lie? Noah had to have mentioned something and if he didn’t, he may in the future. No, I had to stay silent on Chet and the past.
Lifting my chin, I didn’t answer.
“Fuck. I get you don’t know me well enough to trust me but that sure hits hard, sugar.”
“It has to be what it is, Jayce.”
