Page 80 of Maverick

“Ma’am, sir, it’s a pleasure to meet you both. My condolences for your loss,” Maverick said as he shook hands with her mother first, then her father.

“We’re glad to meet you too, Maverick. Thank you,” her mother replied.

“Yes, it’s wonderful to meet you, and thank you for your kind words,” her father added with a smile.

“Are you hungry?” Parker asked Maverick.

“Actually, I’m starving.”

“Then let’s go grab some food. The buffet is right over here and there’s a wide selection to choose from. Mom, Dad, we’ll be back in a bit.”

“Take your time. I’m sure you both have lots to talk about,” her mother reassured.

Parker winked at her mother before taking Maverick’s hand and leading him to the food tables. Once they loaded their plates, they found a table to sit at. As he glanced around the room, Parker couldn’t help but stare at him with happiness. She was so grateful that he had come. He looked back at her and smiled.

“There are a lot of people here,” he commented.

“He was loved by many.”

“It looks like it.”

She knew he was still thinking about not meeting her grandfather. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. I understand.”

“But I really wish you could have met him. He was an incredible person,” her voice caught.

Maverick reached for her hand. “Someday, I’ll get the chance to meet him.”

Parker tried to hold back her tears as she smiled through them. “I hope so.”

Maverick picked up his fork and started eating, and Parker followed suit.

“Did the pilot wait for you?” she asked.

“No, I told him I’d either catch a ride with you or rent a car.”

“So, you were hoping we could talk things out?”

“Of course. I just hoped you wouldn’t be angry with me for showing up.” A tear rolled down Parker’s cheek, and he wiped it away gently. “Don’t cry, darlin’. We’re okay.”

“I hope so. Hurting you is the last thing I want to do.”

Maverick nodded in agreement. He took her hand in his and gazed into her eyes with love. “Parker, you’re the only woman I’ll ever love. We may have disagreements, but that’s all part of being in a relationship. I promise to never intentionally hurt you.”

“I promise the same. I just hate...”

“Let it go, darlin’. I already have. We’re good.” He winked at her, making her smile. “Oh, I should probably find a hotel for the night.”

“No need, you can stay at the house.”

“Are you sure? You might want to check with your parents first.”

“I will right now. I’ll be back.”

“I’ll be right here.”

Parker stood up and walked over to where her parents were sitting with friends.

---