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Drew’s been quiet since we left the restaurant. After he shared some of his experiences in the SEALs, the bastard Godfrey signed the contract and showed a whole new level of respect to Drew.
I spent the evening watching Drew out of the corner of my eye. He remained the professional, outgoing man you would expect to see at a business dinner, one I have seen several times when he has visited Mr Young. But under the table, his leg shook, and his hand clenched into a fist.
When I could get away with it, I would place my hand on his thigh or hold his hand to try and give him the support I was sure he needed. If anyone had noticed, they would have thought I was just a girlfriend or wife wanting to show their partner some affection. But, it was just a concerned friend, showing someone they care very much about that they are not alone in their moment of need.
We pull up outside my house, and Drew lets out a sigh before turning to look at me. I think this is the first time I have ever seen the sparkle that always seems to shine bright in his dark eyes has gone. I don’t like it.
“Thank you for everything tonight, Chels. I don’t know what I would have done without you being there.”
I reach across and take his hand; he looks down as I thread my fingers with his. As he did earlier, he lifts it and softly kisses my knuckles.
“Do you want to come in for a chat and a coffee?” I ask, watching his sad eyes as they find my own.
“I don’t think I will be the best company tonight,” he says with a small smile.
“That’s why I’m asking.” I lift my other hand and place it on his cheek. “Come inside, and I’ll crack open the whiskey,” I offer with a wink.
“Well, if there’s whiskey,” he replies, his smile more genuine. I roll my eyes and let go of his hand.
“Should have known the whiskey would win you over,” I chuckle, opening the passenger door.
“Hey! I’m a man. There’s only three things a real man needs,” he announces as he climbs out of the car and heads towards me as I wait for him at the bottom of my driveway.
“Let me guess, whiskey, bacon and sex.”
“Nope.” He grins as he offers me his arm like a true gentleman. “Strong coffee, good whiskey.” I slip my arm into his, and his smile widens further. “And an intelligent, beautiful woman on his arm.”
I burst out laughing as he gives me a playful wink.
“Well, look at that. I will have had all three tonight.” The playfulness I have learnt to expect from Drew is thankfully back in his voice, and I know inviting him in was the right choice.
I unlock the door and hold it open for him before closing it quietly and heading towards the lounge, where I know Ayva will be watching TV.
“Hey, I’m back.”
Ayva looks up from the TV and smiles, which brightens further when she sees Drew behind me.
“So, I see. Auntie Chels, you’ve brought home a stray.”
“Ayva!” I gasp as Drew laughs behind me.
“Don’t worry, I’ve been treated for fleas and ticks,” Drew answers behind me. “Sorry, Chels. Can I use your bathroom?” he asks quietly.
“Sure, there’s a downstairs one just through the kitchen,” I point him in the right direction. He says a quick thanks and heads off as I look to Ayva, who grins like the cat who got the cream. “Stop it,” I warn, shrugging off my coat and placing it over the arm of the sofa.
“I’m not saying a single word,” she teases, locking her lips and throwing away the key. “Although I can’t promise Mum will be as quiet,” Ayva laughs as she picks up her phone and handbag.
I pull my purse out of my bag and am just about to give Ayva her money when Drew walks back in.
“Put your purse away, woman. I told you I was paying for the babysitter tonight.” He turns his attention to Ayva and smiles. “How much does Chels pay you?”
“Fifty for tonight,” she answers, looking at me with arched brows. Drew pulls his wallet out of his jacket pocket and hands Ayva a pile of notes, who looks down at it, frowning. “There’s too much here?”
Drew shrugs as he walks past her.
“Chels said you are saving for a car, put it towards that.”
Ayva stares at me momentarily before kissing my cheek and smiling.
