Page 48 of Dangerous Pursuit

“Don’t cry. Nothing is different than yesterday.”

“Well, I don’t know about that. You seem, I don’t know, older somehow. I’m glad to see you dressing up on your birthday. Now come, sit down. I made your favorite breakfast, and I want you to open your present.”

I wonder if she’s just being a typical mom or if I really do look older today with the clothes I’m wearing and the extra bit of makeup I did—not a lot, just a hint more to freshen up my look. I want Jackson to see me as an adult and let go of all the ways he’s been holding back.

“Thank you, Mom. I kind of figured that once I finished school, you’d stop making birthday breakfasts.”

“It’s tradition, and as long as you’re home, I’ll never stop. Let’s eat so you can open your present.”

We serve up and start digging in, but I can’t help but ask, “Do you think my outfit or makeup is too much?”

I’m in a blush cotton wrap dress that cuts low in the front and ends midthigh. It’s professional but also transitions to dinner, which I was going for since I’ll probably meet my mom at the restaurant after work.

“I think you look beautiful, Mia. That color goes great with your skin tone, and I don’t think your makeup is overdone at all. It makes you look more mature. I’d tell you if I thought otherwise.” She smiles at me, and I know she’s telling the truth.

“Okay, I just don’t want to look like I’m trying too hard.”

“Mia, honey, you don’t have to try. You’re beautiful just the way you are, but there’s nothing wrong with adding a little oomph. Just don’t get carried away.”

“You know I wouldn’t. So, what time are we meeting at the restaurant for dinner tonight, or do you want me to come home first?” My mom made reservations weeks ago at one of the best steakhouses in town. I told her not to pick somewhere so pricey, but she insisted. It came highly recommended by none other than Jackson’s parents.

“I’ll meet you there. I’m finishing up early today to come home and get ready. I’m so excited to celebrate your big day. All right, open your present now, honey.”

Picking up the small square box, I remove the bow and slowly unwrap it, lifting the lid to a pair of gold nightingale earrings with blue gemstones for the eyes. “Mom, they’re beautiful.”

“They match the necklace I got you for graduation. Aren’t you glad they’re not M&M earrings? It crossed my mind, but I figured you’d like something more mature with your new adult status.” She’s smiling playfully, making me laugh. When I was younger, she and Dad always found fun M&M things for me. The memory gives me a moment of sadness, remembering when my dad was still with us, but I shake it off for Mom’s sake.

“Thank you. And yes, I much prefer the nightingales. They’re perfect. I’ll go upstairs and switch mine out. They’re so pretty.” I stand to hug her. “Thank you for breakfast. I can’t wait for dinner tonight. I love you,” I say as she squeezes me tight.

“Oh, mija, I love you too. I hope you have a wonderful day. You deserve it, since you’re the best daughter a mom could ask for.”

I pull away and see her eyes are glassy. She’s so sentimental.

“Well, the best mom in the world raised me, so that makes sense.” I smile at her. “Okay, I’ll go change my earrings and then head out. I’ll say goodbye before I leave.”

“Okay, sweetie.”

Standing in front of the mirror, I take another long look at myself. I’m excited to see if Jackson notices any difference. Eventhough we had the best time this weekend, he’s still holding back, and I hope it’s just technicalities and not his perception of me that’s doing it. Either way, both bases are covered today, so if he doesn’t make a move, I plan on doing it for him.

I still can’t get over how amazing our date was this weekend—like unbelievably amazing. He’s more mature than anyone I’ve been with and still knows how to relax and just have fun. We laughed more than I have in a long time. Being with him wasn’t only comfortable, but I truly enjoyed every second we were together. The thought he put into the date was over the top, and the spontaneity on the way there was icing on the cake. My desire meter about blew a gasket in the car, and it’s still hovering at the top as I walk into the office.

Although, this is the third morning I’ve woken up with doubt, thinking it’s too good to be true. I’m nervous, wondering if he’s come to his senses and changed his mind about me or if I imagined the whole thing. I’m a big girl; I can take it, but I don’t want to at this point, since I’m head over heels already.

When I reach the desk, my phone buzzes in my purse, and I pull it out to look.

Walker: Happy birthday! Have a good morning, birthday girl. I’ll see you at noon!

Mia: Thanks, Walker. Can’t wait!

I send my text with a bra and underwear emoji and get a laughing emoji in return, which makes me giggle.

“Is that my giggling little girl?”

My belly dips at hearing his sexy voice, and I look up to see Jackson wearing a sultry smile. Okay, it wasn’t my imagination.

“Try that again since I’m an adult today.”

“We can always pretend.”Damn. How can four words make me so hot? “Happy birthday, beautiful. I missed you last night.”He leans down to kiss my forehead. “Did you have a good morning?”

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