Page 86 of Embody

“No, no way. Wait, why? What? Never mind, doesn’t matter, no,” I rattle off mindlessly.

“Breathe and drive, I’m not a fan of wrecking. And yes, yes way, because I like you. You’re a very impressive young lady. My wife and daughters like you. And my son? My son marched into the bank, unconcerned with consulting meorthe fact I’d find out before he had time to exit. He stood up to me, in a tone he knows I’d never normally tolerate, to look out for you. He worked an entire calendar year, while also going to school, as a grunt-work intern with not a dime of pay to earn that Navigator. The one he’s so willing to give up,for you. I don’t want to insult your parents or step on their toes, and I’m more than happy to call them if you’d like, but you’re getting this car. End of conversation.”

Jefferson can read my expression, whatever the hell it looks like (I don’t even know anymore) the second we pull into the dealership, and comes rushing to my door before we’re even in park.

He jerks the door open, squatting down to my eye-level and rubs my thigh. “Baby, what’s that look? Are you okay?”

“She’s fine,” his dad assures him offhandedly while climbing out.

“Dane Kendrick, what’d you do? That poor girl is speechless and pale as a ghost. Your son is a grown man and cares about her very much. I swear, Caveman, if you screwed this up-”

“Woman,” he cuts off his highly agitated wife with a kiss unsuitable for public. When satisfied, he takes her hand and looks back at me and Jefferson. “Son, your mother and I are going home. Go sign whatever it takes to get your girl, who’s lovely by the way, her car.”

No other words are spoken, by anyone, and his parents leave. Jefferson finally picks his jaw up off the ground, and with a gentle hand, pushes mine back in place too.

“You’re gonnahaveto tell methatstory one of these days,” he laughs, helping me out of the car.

IthinkI move my head up and down in agreement, too dazed to be sure.

He wraps his arm around my waist, placing a kiss on my temple. “Come on baby, let’s go get our new rides.”

 

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