Page 24 of Brighton

“Do you like it?”

“Like doesn’t even cover it. I absolutely love it.”

“Turn it around so we can see,” Laura told him. “Brighton, that is so thoughtful.” I’d had a blanket made for Daddy and in each square was a picture one of us, either Daddy or I, had taken since we’d begun dating. I even had a square with a picture I’d snapped of Simon and another with Ursula and Maleficent in it. After all, it was thanks to Daddy that they found their forever homes with us. A couple were from our trip to see the Christmas lights, another while we were curled up in bed together. Each patch represented us and told the story of how we fell in love. I also had a couple of toys and a treat for Simon, but Daddy had to help him open them. The girls’ stocking was hung on the wall at home already stuffed with catnip-soaked goodies.

Next year I’d be better prepared and have a gift for Suzette, too, thankfully Daddy thought ahead and had a couple he signed from us. We spent most of the day lounging around, and watched Simon play. Simon and I dined on far too many treats and when I nodded off Daddy woke me and said it was time to go home. After a round of hugs we said goodbye and returned to Daddy’s house.

“What a fantastic day,” I told him during the drive home. “Thank you for inviting me.”

“You are more than welcome. Mother absolutely adores you. Brighton, my love, you made today perfect just by being you.”

Chapter Twelve

Edward

“Slow introductions are what we need to do,” Daddy said for the umpteenth time but I was still nervous. We’d spent most of the week at his house, but it was time to come home and be with my girls. So, Daddy and Simon were staying over tonight. I wasn’t sure how well the girls were going to take to Simon. “Deep breath, Brighton.”

I helped Daddy with his and Simon’s stuff in the truck as we brought it in from the parking garage. As soon as we stepped inside the girls hissed and took off. They climbed to the highest point they could get to, which was the top of their cat condo. Puffy tails and pissy growls were all they had for him. Simon walked around, did a perimeter check then plopped down on the bed Daddy brought for him.

“Well, it doesn’t get much slower than that,” Daddy said. The girls were still unsure and remained on top of their perch and released a low growl each time their eyes landed on Simon. Simon was clearly unphased by their presence and cared for nothing more than a nap.

Later that night, we were curled up on the couch watching a movie. “Daddy, I have had such a lovely week. I hate that we’re ending it by having dinner with my parents.”

“Brighton, I’m not going to lie, I’m nervous, too, though not for the same reasons you were when you met my mother.” How did I put this, so it wouldn’t offend Brighton? Honestly, I didn’t think it was possible. “From what you’ve shared with me about your parents, I’m not their biggest fan. I’ll bite my tongue until I draw blood and then I won’t be able to hold back. I won’t sit still and allow any negative words directed at you. You deserve better than that.”

“If that happens, we’ll leave.”

“Yes, after I say my peace.” Gods help any man or woman who dared to wrong my boy.

The next day, Brighton was a wreck. “Brighton, you’ve already scrubbed the toilet.” A few minutes later. “Brighton, we ate lunch, and the dishes are done. Relax, love.”

“Ugh, I’ve forgotten how. It’s like I’m already back at their house and uncomfortable in my own skin again.” He tossed the dish towel on the counter. “I’m gonna shower.” I didn’t bother to ask if he wanted company. Not only did he need this time alone, but his shower was too small for us both.

“I’ll run Simon home and get ready. Pick you up in an hour?” While I could’ve gotten ready here, it was easier to do it at home since I had to drop off Simon anyhow.

“Okay.” We kissed goodbye and he locked the door behind me.

I contemplated bringing a gift, but Brighton said his parents didn’t drink so alcohol was out of the question. Even though I’d need it to get through the evening. Every gift giving option I mentioned, Brighton shot it down. Honestly, his parents were the most boring and negative humans on the planet. At least by Brighton and my standards.

Brighton was silent on the drive over which oddly enough wasn’t that far, yet neither of his parents had been to see Brighton’s new place. These people had countless strikes against them going into this that I knew without a doubt there was no way this meeting would go off without a hitch.

We pulled up in front of the house and Brighton sighed. “Okay, be good, Daddy.”

“Will you call me that in front of them, Daddy?”

“No, and not because I’m embarrassed but because that’s our happy place. My parents have a way of sucking out any happiness I feel, and I won’t let them do that to us. You are very important to me. All right, let’s get this over with.” I came around and opened his door and he hopped out. No one came out to greet us as my mother had by the time we got to the door and Brighton had to knock. “They took my key back when I moved out.”

His father answered the door. “Brighton.”

“Hi, Dad.”

“Who’s your friend?” By this point his mother had walked up and stood beside his father. We’d yet to be invited inside.

“This is Edward. Edward, these are my parents, Joe and Shiela Stanley.”

Before I could shake a hand, the inquiry continued. “I thought you were bringing a date,” his mother asked.

“Edward is my date.”

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