Page 75 of The Art of Being Merry
He leans in, his breath hot by my ear. “Text me a time we can do this again. And don’t make me wait too long.” His request issued, he steadies me on the floor, facing into the room. “Don’t leave without a kiss goodbye.”
I turn in time to see him adjust himself as he exits.
What in the heck is going on here?
Dax gives me cash to cover Shania’s fee, informing me it’s his treat and I’m not to pay him back. The “kiss” goodbye is a long, drawn-out affair, and Dax only has himself to blame for being so turned on when I have to leave.
“Text me later.”
“For what?” I question with a brow quirk.
“So I know you’re home safe, even if it’s way after you get home. And to say goodnight.”
He’s not even bashful about what he wants. Why do I adore it so much? It should be stifling, overbearing, a definite annoyance, yet I can’t find it in me to be irritated. It’s quite the opposite. Beguiling, even.
“Okay. Thanks for tonight. It’s been fun.”
“Super fun for me, too,” he echoes. “Until next time.” He creates a heart with his fingers like the teenagers do, further endearing me to him. Because who does this?
Dax Nicholas.
“Bye.” I climb into my car and wave before I pull away.
It’s a short drive to my house, and I can’t fit my car in the driveway because Autumn’s and Willa’s cars are taking both spots. I’ll have to unload the stuff after they leave or in the morning. I’m sure it will be fine until then.
Once inside, I’m greeted by Jace’s, “Mama, you’re home!” He’s off the couch and in my arms in a matter of seconds, and I hug him to me as if it’s been weeks we went without seeing each other instead of a couple of hours. Hyped up on emotions, it’s sweeter than usual, but I can’t let it show outwardly. I have to be cool and collected, especially if I’m going to pull off the lie of where I’ve been. Though Willa might give me a pass until Autumn and Shania leave.
“Hey, baby. Missed you too.”
“We played card games and watched a movie. Aunt Willa came and Autumn, too. Is it a party?” he muses quizzically.
I chuckle. “Definitely not a party. It’s a school night and about time for a bath before bed.”
“Okay. I’m kinda sleepy.”
With Jace still in my arms, I address Shania. “Thanks again. I appreciate it. Hope they behaved.” My gaze travels to Atlas, enthralled by his video game.
“They’re no trouble. Anytime. I love spending time with them.”
It warms my heart to hear others compliment my boys. They’re not perfect, but they’re kind and respectful to others, which reminds me no matter what else is going on in my life, raising good humans is something I’m good at.
“Great to hear. Oh, let me send you the money.”
Shania smiles. “Yay, more book money.”
“Half for you, half for savings,” Autumn imparts.
“Smart mama you’ve got there,” I claim. Wish I had been half as smart to save some of my odd jobs money when I was Shania’s age. “Thanks for picking her up, Autumn.”
“Not a problem. She was so excited when she got your text yesterday, I couldn’t say no. Soon enough, she’ll be driving on her own. I’m dreading the day and relishing it at the same time.”
“Which reminds me. I have to ask Uncle Dax if he’s found a car for me.”
At the mention of his name, my entire body lights up inside. I’m surprised Jace can’t feel the heat.
Autumn raises a brow at her daughter. “Perhaps instead of buying books, you should save for a car and gas money.”
“He’s going to make me pay for the car?” She seems utterly shocked, and Willa and I hide our amusement.
