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“I do,” Cade said, without elaboration.
“And you enjoy that work?”
“Very much.”
It seemed everyone at the table held their breath for his father’s reaction. They didn’t need to wait long.
“You always were good with your hands. Even as a kid you enjoyed taking things apart. Cars these days are complicated machines. It takes someone who knows what they’re doing to figure out their inner workings.”
—
After dessert was served and enjoyed—lemon meringue pie, another of Cade’s favorites—he made their excuses. They had a two-hour drive to Oceanside ahead of them. After words of appreciation from Cade and Hope, both parents walked them to the front door.
“It was good to see you, son,” John said.
“You too, Dad.”
His mother hugged them both. With the rain coming down hard, Cade placed his hand at the small of Hope’s back as they raced toward his truck.
Once out of the weather, Cade reached for Hope. He placed his hand around the back of her neck and dragged her mouth to his for a lengthy kiss. She was breathless when he released her, blinking several times at the passion behind the unexpected kiss.
“What was that about?” she asked, her hand over the rapid beat of her heart.
“A thank-you for coming with me today. For sharing your heart with me. For helping me to bridge the gap between my parents and me. In case you haven’t figured it out, I’m in love with you, Hope.”
Smiling, she leaned her head against his shoulder. “I sorta figured. Guess you know I feel the same way about you.”
“Yup,” he said, and started the engine. He put the car in reverse, ready to back out of the long driveway when Hope placed her hand on his forearm, stopping him.
Cade reverted his attention to her. “Treasure your family, Cade.”
Her words deeply touched him, seeing Hope had none of her own. “I do,” he assured her.
Her smile was wide as she gave his arm a gentle squeeze.
“Ready?” he asked.
“Ready,” she told him.
They were headed home.
