Page 39 of When Love And Destiny Collide

As we unpack groceries, Lisa glances at me, curiosity gleaming in her eyes. “So, things with Noah are serious?” she asks, pulling out a carton of eggs. “He’s a whole adult older than you, Bestie. Are you sure you want to go there?”

“I love him,” I confess. “I think I've beenthereand back. I can’t imagine my life without him and Davey.”

She raises an eyebrow. “I guess I’m just not into older men. But I have to admit, I’ve always thought your dad is devastatingly handsome. And that accent is enough to make my heart flutter.”

“Don’t even think about it,” I warn, my tone half-joking, half-serious.

“Why not?” she teases. “You wouldn’t want me as your stepmom?”

“Lisa!”

She laughs, but her eyes sparkle with mischief. “If your dad gave me a bouquet of roses after a first date like Noah did for you, I might rethink my stance on older men.”

I shake my head, more serious now. “Trust me, the only bouquet my father would ever give you is a bunch of red flags.”

“Whoa!” Lisa exclaims, her playful tone dropping. “Why? What’s wrong with him?”

I sigh, the truth slipping out before I can stop it. “The only serious relationship my father ever had was with Mom, and he still cheated on her. Now, he’s a chronic middle-aged playboy. So, again, don’t even think about it. I mean it!”

***

My nerves are on edge as I wait at the airport for Dad's flight to land, the anticipation mounting with every passing minute. When I finally spot him, maneuvering through the crowd with two suitcases in tow, I wave him over. As he reaches me, I greet him with a warm embrace.

"Hola, cariño!" he says, kissing me gently on the forehead. "Look at you. You look great, Mija. You look happy."

"Thank you, Dad, I am happy."

As we drive home, he asks, "How are the Linders doing?"

"They'll be back this Friday," I reply. "It’ll be so nice to have everyone home again."

"You usually go with them to Florida. What made you decide to stay behind this year?"

"I wanted to be here to meet Noah and Davey," I say honestly. Then, I recount the entire story of how we met, ducks included.

"Why didn’t he come with you to pick me up?" His voice carries a hint of reproach.

"He’s meeting with his publisher in Albany today," I explain. "Noah’s a writer."

Dad nods thoughtfully. "And his boy? Aren't you his babysitter?"

"Yes," I reply with a smile. "Lisa’s watching him until we get back."

"Your old roommate, Lisa?" he asks, a glimmer of curiosity in his eyes.

"Yes. They’re waiting for us at Sam and Laila's house."

He gives me a sidelong look. "So… is Lisa dating anyone?"

I shoot him a warning glance. "Dad, don't you dare even think about hitting on my friend. I mean it!"

He bursts out laughing, the sound rich and teasing, making it clear he was only pulling my leg.

"So, are you still going out with Noah Linder?"

"Yes, I’m still seeing Noah."

He straightens, crossing his arms, the silence thick and palpable. I feel his gaze on me, but I keep my eyes on the road, bracing myself. When the silence stretches too long, I take a deep breath, ready to face whatever’s on his mind.

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