Page 111 of Elevator Pitch

“Nice to meet you too,” she says with a bright smile.

She seems a bit more relaxed than before. I assume the speed cleaning helped. Her gaze is assuring, causing me to feel better already. My shy father retires to the couch after his quick introduction. I eavesdrop on my mom and Selah’s conversation while I put away the groceries and they’re hitting it off. Mom has been reading spicy romances, so they’re bonding over that. I quickly vacate because I’ve read some of those books and I’d rather not hear my mom recount her favorites.

I try to hide my smile when I round the corner and see Clifford laying beside him, resting his head on his leg. Dad absentmindedly scratches his head while he flips through channels. I find it interesting because I always wanted a dog and my parents wouldn’t let me have one, but these two look like the best of friends. I let out a sigh as I plop down. I predict we’ll sit in silence because he’s not much of a talker.

As expected, he doesn’t say much other than asking me about how business is and what’s new in my life. I keep my updates short and all about work. I bite back the urge to mention Selah because I’m unsure of what to say and she’s not even twenty feet away. Though she wouldn’t hear me overthe giggle fits coming from the kitchen. I’m glad to hear they are having some fun.

When I ask him how he’s been, he keeps it short as usual. Then goes into his usual spiel about how I should visit more than just the holidays. I would, but he and I don’t get along very well. My parents not supporting my marriage caused a rift. My mom and I have since worked it out, but my dad is just too stubborn.

“I’m happy you were home, Greyson. I know it’s not a good day foryouand you’re not too happy with us showing up unannounced, but it was my idea.”

He scoots closer to me and pats my shoulder.

“So, be mad at me. I was only hoping to cheer her up. It may be your birthday, but it’s also the day we became your parents. We only see one of you often and you’re a half hour away.

“Is eomma okay?” I ask with concern; my stomach drops at the thought.

“She’s fine, aduel. So am I. She’s just been a little down and has been missing her sons. The phone calls help, but it’s not the same as sharing a meal or being able to hug you.”

“I understand.”

We peer over the couch at her and Selah in the kitchen and she is teaching her how to prep Wanja Jorim?5. If mom is cooking, she’ll always make your favorite meals. Always. I saw the groceries she bought, and she must have plans to make a Korean buffet tonight. I won’t complain about them crashing since mom’s cooking. I only wish Henry could be here. Every chance he gets he mentions how homesick he is.

My mom makes a few meatballs by hand, then tells Selah to try. Her brows are wrinkled in concentration as she tries to mimic my mom’s actions and it’s the cutest thing I’ve ever seen. I smile to myself.

When I look back at my dad, he’s wearingthat knowing expression again. I shrug it off and face the TV. Moments later, he excuses himself and I relax on the couch, getting cozy with Cliff.

My dad returns to his seat and surprises me again by asking, “Would you like to get out of the house? It’s a nice day. We could go to a dog park and get ice cream.”

“Who are you and what have you done with my appa?”

He chuckles and says, “I’m sure your neighbor will be just fine. Your mother won’t bite her.”

I don’t feel great about leaving her alone, but it seems like they’re having a good time. I can’t remember the last time my dad and I did something just for us. It had been when I was in high school, but since he invited Clifford, I’m in. It’s impossible to have a bad day when he’s around.

“Sure, I’d just like to say goodbye to her before we go.”

I rise from the couch, making my way to the kitchen where my mom and Selah are making quite the mess.

“I’m sorry to interrupt, but I need to borrow her for a sec.”

“Don’t keep her too long. We’re having fun,” Mom exclaims.

Selah follows me and we take off far enough down the hallway from prying eyes.

“Are you mad at me?” I ask nervously.

“No. Why would I be?”

I lean in close. “Give me a kiss if you’re not mad.”

She smiles against my lips and grants me a soft kiss.

When we separate, I stare adoringly.

“I promise I won’t be gone long.”

“It’s fine. Your eomma has good taste in books, by the way.”

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