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Her voice is steady, but her hand trembles. She’s putting on a brave face and I admire her even more for it. After hearing how Thad’s mother treated her and warning her about the impression our video might have made on my parents, she’s holding up well.
Not that I doubted she would.
Mom gives her a long, surveying look. “Likewise, dear.”
Dad grunts.
His usual language. He’s a man of few words, while mom can talk the ears off anyone who’ll give her the chance. Despite their differences, they work well together, playing off each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
“I’ve heard so much about you,” Asia adds, nodding awkwardly.
“Well, we haven’t heard a thing about you,” mom says. There’s still a smile on her face, but her words have enough steel behind them to warn us not to be fooled.
I tighten my hold on Asia. “Mom.”
“What?” Her blue eyes fix on me. “It’s true.”
“If this is how you’re going to behave, we’re going to head back.”
“Hansley!”
“I mean it, mom.”
“Hey.” Asia squeezes my hand and whispers, “Stop.”
I relax my stare, but I don’t take back the threat.
I wasn’t just saying what Asia wanted to hear on the plane. I’m willing to back up every word.
My mother means the world to me, but I won’t tolerate anyone disrespecting Asia or making her feel like she’s in the wrong.
As much as I understand my mother’s hurt and frustration, she doesn’t know the full story. Asia’s taking on the burden of both Make It Marriage and Nicholas & McQueen’s issues on her slim shoulders. If I can’t relieve her of worry, at the very least I can keep from adding any weight to the load.
That includes protecting her from all harm.
Even if that danger’s coming from my loving, well-meaning mother.
Mom pins her lips together and sends me a disapproving look.
Dad clears his throat. “Why don’t we go inside?”
“Yes.” Mom forces a smile. “This way.”
I place my fingers on the small of Asia’s back as we follow my parents.
She glances up at me, her nose scrunched. “Why are you being so intense? Your mom’s going to hate me even more.”
“Am I supposed to roll over and do nothing?”
“I’ll handle it,” she whispers hotly. “So stop trying to defend me. Your mom’s not the enemy and you’re only making it worse.”
“Ehem.”
Asia and I freeze.
Mom turns around, an amused smirk on her lips. “You both know that we can hear you, right?”
“Oh.” Asia places a hand to her lips. “Oh, I—”
