Page 193 of Come Break My Heart Again

She stares at me expectantly. Both my parents are.

The manners they drilled into me kick in.

“Thank you,” I say, gesturing toward the house. “This is … wow.”

I glance at Ryder, who looks too stunned to speak.

Or maybe he’s mad. They didn’t evenaskus.

I’m less surprised than he must be. No part of me expected this, but it’s so typical of my parents. They have enough money that a purchase this size is moderate in their eyes. Like how most people might see splurging for an in-ground swimming pool. A significant expense, but not a big one.

And … this is their way of giving me the life they want for me. They always assumed—hoped—I’d end up with a wealthy guy from their world and settle down in Fernwood to raise my kids.They’re accepting Ryder on their terms. They’re making sure I live in the mansion, five minutes from them, regardless of who I’m in a relationship with.

My dad holds out keys to me. “Here are the keys. I’ve got the deed and all the paperwork in my office.” He glances at Ryder. “It’s in Elle’s name. Just simpler since you two aren’t married, but this is a gift to the both of you. I want to make sure that’s clear.”

“Thank you,” Ryder manages.

“Well, we should get going,” my mom says.

“Going?” I ask.

“We have a dinner at the Parkers’ to get to,” she explains.

“I thoughtwewere having dinner.”

“Oh, that was just a cover for the surprise. I’m sure you two want to look around, enjoy some time to yourselves. We’ll do dinner a different night. I’ll send you some dates of when your father and I are free.”

“Uh … okay,” I reply, not sure what else to say.

I’m a little numb. Between the busy morning at work, emotional goodbye at the beach, and nowthis, I’m totally drained.

My mom kisses my cheek. “I havesomany design ideas,” she whispers to me. “The space is gorgeous. And there’s a screened porch! I’ve always wanted one.”

I don’t dare look at Ryder.

“We’ll see you next Sunday?” my dad asks.

“Yes,” I reply. “I’ll be there.”

My voice is somber, reflective of the occasion. It’s the anniversary of Rose’s death.

“You’ll join us, Ryder?”

Ryder nods. His expression is grave, too, and I realize he remembers the date. He knows my father is inviting him to a cemetery. “Of course, sir.”

My father puffs up with a little importance. He’d never admit it, but he loves that Ryder calls himsir. Most of the guys I’ve dated took the chummy approach, referring to him as Michael and discussing the best golf club brands. I think Ryder’smoxieis growing on him too. That he respects how Ryder holds his ground whenever they disagree. That Ryder refuses to go golfing or drink his expensive cognac, sticking to football and beer.

My mom is harder to crack. But if Ryder ever proposes and she gets to plan the wedding, I think she’ll totally come around.

They see how happy Ryder makes me. And for all their faults, I know that’s what they want for me. They just had different ideas about what would make me happy.

My parents leave.

Ryder and I remain on the sidewalk, staring at the house. It’s even more beautiful now, fully finished, than it was the first time I saw it.

“Do you want to go inside?” I ask.

He glances over. “Can we come back tomorrow? I’d love to change, if we’re not doing dinner with your parents.”

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