Page 20 of Feels Like Home

Jace’s foot tapped against Ian’s, reminding him of their dinner at Deep Dish when he’d done that same thing to him.

Inez rose from the table and sauntered out of the kitchen. A moment later she returned with a shot glass filled with a clear liquid and set it in front of Ian. “Drink up, honey, and you’ll be more chill than a sloth in a hammock.”

“Grandma!” Jace palmed his face and groaned. “Please stop trying to get Ian drunk.”

“Really, Inez?” Myla shook her head in exasperation. “You’re giving him tequila for breakfast? I want him to relax, not dance on the table.”

“Ignore them, honey. Tequila is the solution to all life’s problems.” Inez patted her frail hand on Ian’s shoulder. “It’ll get rid of that frightened look in your handsome eyes.”

Ian tossed the drink back and hissed. Although human alcohol wouldn’t get him wasted, it still burned his throat.

“If you want another, we can sneak off to the sunporch and get pickled.” She pinched his cheek before resuming her seat. “The offer doesn’t expire, Ian.” She looked at Jace. “Don’t forget my peanut butter cookies, dearie.”

“If I could afford to, I’d buy you a couple cases since you go through them so quickly.” Jace dug into his hashbrowns, which had a light layer of ketchup on top.

As Ian ate, he noticed that his mate wasn’t introverted or anxious around his family. He seemed so at ease, effortlessly engaging in conversation. While Ian adored Jace’s shyness, seeing his mate’s carefree side was just as charming.

“What’s your favorite cookie, Ian?” Inez asked.

Jace bumped legs with him.

“I really don’t have a favorite, but I’m partial to oatmeal raisin,” Ian replied. “My sweet tooth leans more toward cake paired with a glass of cold milk.”

Inez’s wrinkled lips formed a pout. “Now I’m craving cake and milk. Jace, can you be a sweetie and pick me up a cake from the store and a quart of milk?”

“I’ll see what they have on sale.” Jace wiped his mouth with his napkin. “You can also get cake by the slice, although those selections are limited.”

“Just make sure it isn’t dry.” Inez picked up the pack of cookies next to her and shook it. “I can’t believe I ate two boxes in two days. I need to hide some from myself so I have a secret stash.”

Jace chuckled. “You can’t hide something from yourself because you’ll know where it is.”

Ian rested his arm on the back of Jace’s chair. Even tepid, his food had been delicious. He was full from eating every last bite. “Thank you for breakfast, ma’am.”

“Myla,” she corrected with a stern expression that held no malice. “You’re welcome at our table anytime, Ian.”

If she only knew what a profound impact her open invitation had on him. Ian offered a small, closed-mouth smile and a nod, struggling to contain the emotions welling up within him.

“You’re always welcome to a shot or two of tequila as well.” Inez stood and picked up her plate.

Ian jumped to his feet and took it from her. “Let me get that for you.”

“What a perfect gentleman.” She squeezed his bicep then whispered, “Do my grandson right, young man.”

“You have my word,” he whispered back, overwhelmed by the love and warmth that radiated within their home.

When Jace began to clear the table, Ian pitched in. They stood next to each other washing dishes, his mate stealing glances as their hands touched.

“How’d I do?” Ian asked in a hushed tone so he wasn’t overheard, though he had no idea where the women had wandered off to.

“They like you.” Jace’s smile wavered as he handed Ian a soapy frying pan.

“But?” Ian thought the morning had gone well despite the fact he’d briefly walked out. Maybe he was mistaken and Jace was simply being polite to avoid hurting his feelings.

“I…” Jace trailed off, his hands submerged in the soapy dishwater.

“You don’t have to spare my feelings. I gave it a shot.” Ian set the pan in the dishrack. That sense of belonging had once again slipped through his fingers. He should have known better than to open himself up to hope.

“That’s not it.” Jace shook his head. “I just—” He glanced up at Ian, apprehension in his eyes. “My mom and grandma really like you.” Jace looked away. “I really like you, Ian. A lot. Like, a lot, lot. And I just want to… No, I need to know if we’re just friends who fool around or…”

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