Page 43 of For the Lover in You
"Ready?"
She nodded.
We headed out the door, and I locked everything down. I was thankful I had driven the SUV because KJ would have space. I opened the door for Mila.
"I can put KJ in the car, Mr. Houston."
"Get in the car, Mila. I got him."
She hesitated, but eventually got in. I helped KJ into the back seat, helping him with the seat belt.
"You cool, little man?"
He nodded with a smile. This time, he stuck his hand out and I high-fived it. A silly smile spread across my face as I closed the door, heading to the driver's side.
"Ready?" I asked after fastening my seatbelt.
She nodded. We rode down the street for about five minutes before I heard soft snores coming from the back seat. I turned around and saw KJ slumped over. I chuckled.
"He must've had a long day," I surmised.
She giggled. "No, he's just no good in the car. It doesn't matter the distances KJ is going to sleep."
"My type of party."
The car grew silent, but I didn't want the conversation to end. I wanted to keep talking to her. Since I last saw Mila, she'd been the only thing that had consistently crossed my mind. I wanted to know how she was doing, what she was doing, and when she was doing it. Regardless of how much work was on my plate, Mila filled the majority of my thoughts.
"How's everything going with your ex? Still harassing you?"
She sighed and nodded. "I need to find a great lawyer."
"I can talk to Owen. He's a defense lawyer, but I'm sure he knows some decent family lawyers."
She scoffed. "Sounds nice, but I know they're expensive. Thank you, but no thank you. I'm saving all my tips and paychecks from the diner to at least afford a consultation without breaking the bank."
I made a mental note to shoot Owen a text when I dropped her off. Anything would help at the moment. Instead of letting her know my plan, I switched the subject.
"Did you figure out whether you can attend the realtors' conference?"
She nodded. "Oh yeah, Chas is going to look after KJ."
"Nice. I think you're going to enjoy it."
"I hope so."
A few minutes later, we arrived at the apartment. I parked the car and shut it off. She was already unbuckling her seatbelt.
"Thank you, Mr. Houston, for the ride."
"Of course. Anytime. And before you protest, I am going to carry KJ upstairs. I know I would be mad if you woke me up from a sleep like that."
She laughed. "You're right. Thank you."
"You're welcome."
I jumped out of the car and grabbed KJ, placing him on my shoulder. We went up the stairs and finally arrived at the apartment. Mila showed me where to lay him, and I placedhim in the bed, covering him with the blanket. I looked at the nightstand, and there was a picture frame with a family photo in it. I looked past his cowardly ass father of his and zoned in on Mila. Her hair was long and curly, unlike now. However, I liked her shortcut better. The cut gave her a more edgy look. It gave off boss vibes. She was more beautiful now than with her long hair.
"Thanks, Mr. Houston," she voiced from behind me. "KJ is getting heavier, and I know those steps would've taken me out."
