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His son kept Ali next to him when they all sat down at a long table. He included her in the conversation, even when it turned to his siblings.
Daniel went to get a refill on him and Ali’s drinks. He was putting the lids back on the containers when James came up beside him, cup in hand. “I like her.”
He met his son’s gaze but didn’t comment.
“She makes you happy, right?” he asked.
It was strange having this conversation with his youngest son. “She does.”
James smiled, put the lid back on his cup, and took a sip from his straw.
They finished their meal and walked back to this hotel. Once again, James commandeered Ali. This time the two chatted about music. “What was that band you had me listen to the last time I was at your house?”
“Guns and Roses,” David said. “Only one of the best hair bands of the eighties.”
Ali scoffed. “I don’t know about that.”
He didn’t hear David’s response because Jessica placed her hand on his arm, drawing his attention. “She’s good for you.” Before he could find something to say, she went on. “You deserve to be happy, Daniel. I know things didn’t work out between us, but that was both our faults.”
That was true. He and Jessica had drifted apart and they’d both had a part in that. At any time, they could have changed course, made time for each other, kept the connection. They hadn’t.
“I see the way you look at her.” Jessica stopped and he did the same. “You’re in love with her.”
He didn’t deny it, but he didn’t confirm it either.
“Don’t let this opportunity pass you by, okay?” With that parting comment, she began walking again.
James was flying out early tomorrow morning, as were Jessica and David, so Daniel and Ali said their goodbyes at the hotel. “Call me if you need anything.”
“I will,” James said, embracing his father. Then, he turned to Ali, pulling her in for a hug as well. “Take care of him.”
Ali nodded.
James, Jessica, and David made their way to the elevators, leaving him and Ali alone. Daniel checked his watch. It was after six thirty. “It’s getting late. We need to get moving.”
Leaving the parking garage was a breeze. The competition had wrapped up two hours before, so most of those who’d come to watch the show had already left. That was good, considering the time.
While there wasn’t a set time they needed to be at the club given Ali wasn’t working this evening, he wanted to enjoy the time with his sub. He had plans for her tonight and after having to keep his hands to himself all day, he was ready to play.
He’d picked out her attire for tonight and he couldn’t wait to see her in it. It was purple, her favorite color.
“I love your outfit,” Bridget said as they entered the lobby.
Daniel handed over their jackets for Bridget to hang up. While the days were warm enough, the evenings were a crap shoot.
After Bridget scanned his membership card, Daniel swiped his card and entered the club. Since they were later than usual, the main floor was full of people. He cupped Ali’s ass, pulling her against him. “Get changed, then come find me.”
“Yes, Sir.”
Ali took her bag and he watched her hips sway as she made her way to the locker room. She’d worn his favorite jeans today and he was going to have fun making her pay for teasing him.
“I was wondering if you guys were going to show tonight.”
Daniel turned to find Alexander coming toward him. He was using his cane. Most nights he was fine without it, but the injury he’d sustained during his time in the Army acted up when he pushed himself too hard. “My son had a fitness competition today and wanted to go out after.”
“Ah.”
“Where’s your girl?” Daniel asked, not seeing Grace anywhere on the main floor.
