Page 7 of The Art of Being Merry
Why does her accurate statement burst my bubble?
“I’ll drive your van.” It’s like I can’t help myself where she’s concerned. The need to spend more time with her, even in the presence of her children, runs deep in me.
Her eyebrows raise, but I can’t read the significance. Did I go too far with my offer? It’s not until she says, “You don’t mind?” that I let go of the bated breath.
“Not at all. Have a glass. Or two. I’ll make sure you’re safe getting home.” I don’t take my eyes off her. Again, she’s not quick to respond, and I hate the waiting, the not knowing, even for the smallest amount of time.
When her smile emerges, my heart soars. “Cool. Thanks, Dax. I appreciate it.”
“We’ve got plenty of room here,” Willa pipes in. While she’s not wrong, it’s unhelpful in my quest to spend more time with Clementine.
“The boys will sleep better in their beds, but thanks.” Clementine turns her sister down gently, much to my inner delight.
I let out an inaudible sigh of relief. I can’t imagine it’s the truth, considering all the shuffling around they’ve done since they arrived in Winterberry Junction. Swear it felt like they were always coming or going from North Carolina, moving from one place to another in town. Maybe they’re finally settled, and she’s done disrupting their lives.
“Fine. Be that way.” Willa playfully sticks her tongue out at her twin sister. “Guess we don’t have to be quiet with our bedroom antics tonight, Beckett.”
A collective gasp rises from the rest of us, and Clementine spits out a sip of eggnog.
“Willafred!” she admonishes. “Have more tact in front of your family. And do not make me waste superb liquor.”
My sister-in-law shrugs, not an ounce of embarrassment in herexpression. She’s exactly who my brother needs in his life, and he’s head over heels in love with his wife. I’m happy for him in finding an excellent partner in Willa.
If only I could do the same.
Except I’m not sure I’m ready to settle down. Sure, it might be nice to have one woman occupy my bed instead of the rotating parade of women I’ve slept with throughout the years. In their beds. Haven’t found anyone worth bringing to mine.
But the endless hookups, trying to meet new women who aren’t passing through, dating, and getting to know them to find out they’re not for me, is getting tiresome. I enjoy sex as much as the next guy, but lately, it’s been lackluster putting in the effort. Which is a place I never thought I’d get. Yet, here I am.
“Right, Dax?” I’m ripped from my head by Atlas’s question.
When did the kids come back? How long was I stuck in my thoughts? What else did I miss? If I answer incorrectly, the kid will probably get more money from me.
“What’s that?” I try for casual, not sure I achieve the goal.
“You’ll drive us past the lights tonight on the way home.” He doesn’t seem too irritated at repeating himself, and it’s something I can surely do.
“Yep, of course. Haven’t seen it yet myself. Gotta see how amazing your mom’s display illuminates our town.”
I sneak a glance at Clementine. Her cheeks flush redder. I can’t tell if it’s from embarrassment or the liquor.
“I can attest to its awesomeness,” Beck enthuses. “Great use of color, different-shaped lights, and patterns.”
“I can’t wait to see,” Mom replies.
“Maybe we should all go now,” someone suggests. Still stuck on Clementine, I can’t be sure who voices it.
Atlas stands up. “Oh, yes. That’s a great plan. We can get out and walk around, fully absorb the elegance.”
For eight years old, the kid’s got a good head on his shoulders. If he uses his intelligence for good, it’ll get him far in life. He shares his red hair and freckles with his mom, but his eyes are blue.
As if it’s been decided, everyone chatters about the plan, putting on their winter gear, getting ready to head out.
I check in with Clementine. “Are you okay with this?”
Her eyes narrow. “Why wouldn’t I be? I’m proud of my accomplishments and want everyone to see.”
“K.” I don’t know why I thought she’d think otherwise. Guess the pink cheeks are from the alcohol. “Cool. I’ll drive your car to the lights and drop you home afterward. Make sure the boys have everything. And you, too,” I tack on. I should probably do the same, although I have to come back and grab my truck. If I’ve forgotten anything, I can grab it then.
