Page 49 of Her Sweet Surrender
With Sir’s permission, Brie contacted Marquis Gray the next day and explained what she wanted to do with the cooking course and why.
Marquis did not hesitate in his answer. “It would be an excellent use of the certificate.”
“Thank you for the thoughtful gift. I’m sorry we never had the chance to enjoy it ourselves.”
“Life is full of unexpected challenges, Mrs. Davis. There’s no need to apologize. I’m happy to hear it will be put to good use.” He paused for a moment and asked, “How are you doing?”
The concern in his voice touched Brie. “I am well, Marquis.”
“Has a decision been made on how to proceed with Lilly?”
“Not yet. You’ve given Sir a lot to consider.”
“I’m glad to hear he is thinking it through before taking action. I was certain he would. Take care, Mrs. Davis, and give your Master my best.”
Brie was comforted by his words, secure in the knowledge that the rift between the two men had not damaged their friendship.
Returning Home
Soon after her parents officially moved into their new house, Brie and Sir went to visit them with Hope in tow.
Brie handed Marquis’s gift to her mother. “Happy housewarming!”
Her mother opened the envelope and smiled, showing it to Brie’s dad. “That sounds like so much fun!”
Her father huffed. “I don’t cook, Brianna. You know that.”
Brie grinned, figuring he would say that. “You can just observe, Daddy. Nothing says you have to participate in the cooking sessions. I just thought it would be nice for you two to get out and meet people. It comes highly recommended by Marquis Gray.”
“Oh, really?” He suddenly looked interested.
Brie knew how much her father respected the Dom and wasn’t surprised when he muttered, “I suppose I could go just to support your mom.”
Her mom threw her arms around him. “Thank you, honey!”
Brie’s dad rolled his eyes but followed it up by giving her a quick peck on the cheek.
For all his complaining, her dad really did have a soft heart.
“Now for the whole reason we moved to La La Land in the first place. Come here, cutie,” her father said, taking Hope from her arms. “Grandpa’s got a whole lot of spoiling to catch up on.”
Sir spoke up. “We appreciate you taking Hope for the night.”
“Anytime, Thane,” her mother said, giggling. “This feels like a dream, being able to see you throughout the year and getting to babysit Hope to our hearts’ content.”
“It’s a blessing to us as well, Mom,” Brie told her, squeezing Sir’s hand.
Her father stared at them for a moment, then shook his head. “I don’t want to know where you are going or what you will be doing.” He raised his hand. “As far as I’m concerned, you don’t exist beyond these walls. It’s the only way I can keep my sanity.”
“Daddy!” Brie cried.
“Just telling you like it is, little girl. Now off you go. Your mother and I have a lot of time to make up with our granddaughter.”
It was humorous to Brie. After being the center of her parents’ universe her whole life, her parents now cared more about being with Hope than with her. As Brie walked to the car with Sir, she laughed. “I don’t think they would complain if we never came back.”
Sir smirked as he opened the passenger door and helped her into the car. “I plan to take full advantage of their generous offer.”
“Where are we going, Sir?”
