Page 26 of Cash

“So did you, Lars,” Taja reminds him while her eyes start to get that squinty look that all men know means business.

“He hasn’t changed overnight. He feels the same,” Dad tries again.

“I need to judge that for myself. I’m a nurse after all, and it’s important that I keep tabs on his progress,” Taja shoots back.

“I’m a grandfather, and I believe that trumps nurse.”

“Hand over that child this second, Lars. Don’t make me come out there, you selfish jackass,” Lola shouts from the living room.

Dad knows when he’s been beaten, so he carefully hands Liam to a now smiling Taja. Dad’s pout is Axel-worthy, and I chuckle seeing it. I lean my ass against the counter next to Tessie and watch Bella’s face as she leans over Taja’s shoulder to get a look at Liam.

“He’s so cute and tiny! I barely remember the twins and Alex being this size,” Bella says while shooting a soft smile my direction.

“He looks just like Cash, so of course he’s cute,” Tessie adds while wrapping her arms around my bicep.

“Cash has the Larson genes. Damn straight he’s cute. Sad that it skipped a generation, though, huh Lars?” Lottie hollers from her perch on the couch.

After the laughter dies down, I look toward Vex, only to see his eyes on Taja and Liam. His eyes are pained, and I know this is hard for him. Seeing Taja holding an infant again has got to bring back hard memories for him. I wish I knew of a way to make it easier for him, for both of them, but I don’t. While thinking this, I watch him get to his feet and walk into the kitchen. Placing a tanned hand on Taja’s shoulder, she looks upward with a smile. Maybe this is helping her some.

“When does Uncle Vex get a turn?” Vex questions quietly.

“You sure?” Taja asks back as her eyes rake over Vex’s face.

“Yeah.”

Liam is transferred again, and Vex takes a seat in an empty chair. I’m not sure any of us are breathing while waiting to see how this goes. Vex cradles my son with care while looking down at his tiny features. After a moment, Vex looks at Taja and gives a half-smile.

“You were right, baby. We’re ready,” Vex says cryptically.

Taja’s face transforms to the largest smile I’ve seen from her in many months. It’s a thing of raw beauty.

“Are you sure, Vex?”

“Absolutely sure, if you are.”

“Yeah, honey, I am.”

“Oh, hells bells! You two are going to be humping like bunnies, aren’t you?” Tessie moans.

The room breaks into laughter at Tessie’s dramatics, and I relax when I realize what this means. Taja and Vex are mostly healed, or as much as you ever can be after losing a child, and ready for another baby. Another chance at making a family for themselves. Another new beginning for them and a new life to cherish.

While I’m still thinking these thoughts, Vex stands, hands Liam to me, grabs Taja’s hand and pulls her up and into his arms. They hold tight to each other for a moment, and then as if they’re operating with one brain, bolt for the door. A moment later, I hear their vehicle start and leave in a hurry.

“Sucks to be us, Bella. There went our ride,” Tessie says with a laugh.

“You mean it sucks to be Cash. He’s the one stuck with us,” Bella returns with her own laugh.

“I took a few weeks off work to get settled with Liam, so I’m not going anywhere. You’re welcome here anytime,” I say while Tessie loops her arms around my neck and nearly strangles me.

“No worries, ladies. You can hang out with us while we educate Terry on all things “Golden Girls” and then we’ll give you a ride home,” Lola assures them.

“Fine. All that’s settled. Now give me my grandson back before Tessie’s driving skills rub off on him,” Dad jokes while holding his hands out.

Stepping away from the counter, I hand Liam over to Dad. Poor kid has been handed around for two days now. I know he shouldn’t be around so many people at this young age but try telling that to my blood and club families.

“I resent that, Lars. My driving’s improved a lot,” Tessie sputters.

“What’s this about your driving, Tessie? Are you having trouble with it?” Lottie questions while muting the TV.

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