Page 34 of Wild Hearts

“Um, yeah?” I say confused.

“Good. How about we sit on the porch and talk a while?”

“Sure. Let me refill my coffee.”

After getting a refill, we make our way to the porch swing and sit down.

“Shane, honey, I want to talk to you about something.”

My heart stops.

Is this it? Is this when she decides she hates me? Does she think I’m not good enough for her son?

“My Lord, child. There’s no reason to look so frightened.”

I force a smile. “I know. What’s going on, Nina?”

“You make him happy; you know.”

This time, my smile is genuine now. “You really think so?”

“A mother knows. Shane, I’ve thought of you as my daughter for years now. Nothing’s going to change now that you’re dating Aiden. I think you’re a positive influence on him. He’s been so lost since deciding to retire. He wouldn’t commit to coming home, but he didn’t know what he wanted to do. Now I know why. He was looking for his place in this world. He found it. By your side. I’m so happy you found each other. I think you will have an amazing life together.”

I beam. “That means the world to me. Are you sure you’re not mad? You know I can’t leave this place. If we’re going to be together, he’s going to have to move here.”

“I know, dear.” She pats my leg. “I knew it the moment I saw how he looked at you. He’s completely smitten with you. He will move heaven and earth to make you happy. I see that reflected in your eyes too. I wanted to let you know that I’m happy he’s moving here. Promise me a couple of things, though.”

I take a deep breath. “Anything.”

“One, take care of my boy. He’s so used to taking care of others just like you. You need to take care of each other now. Work through the fights, and there will be fights. Make time for each other and never forget this feeling you have for him. Being in a relationship is hard. It’s not always going to be smooth sailing. The most important thing is to communicate and stick it out, even when the going gets rough.”

I take in all the wisdom she’s giving me. “I promise. I will always take care of him and work for this relationship.”

She smiles. “Now for the second promise. I need grandkids before I die.”

I choke on the sip of coffee I just took. “Excuse me?”

“You heard me. I want grandchildren to spoil. Autumn and Jackson are doing great, but he’s in the peak of his game while she’s enjoying her career. They won’t be having kids anytime soon. You’re my best bet at this point.”

I shake my head, laughing. “We haven’t even talked about kids yet.”

She smiles. “No, but I know you want them and trust me when I say he does too.”

I lean in and hug her tightly. “Thank you, Nina. You are the best.”

She smiles. “You can call me Mom if you want. I mean you don’t have to and I’ll never take your mother’s place, but I’m happy to be your second mom.”

Tears fill my eyes. “Thank you, Mom.”

Chapter 9

Shane

Iwake up in Mick’s arms and smile. Then I remember what today is.

Seven more days.

Seven more days to be with him.

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