Gemma: Yes, use your mama instincts!
Everleigh: I’m about to hire my own hit man to find this bitch.
I snort.
Katie: Don’t worry, Eric’s here and is doing everything he can to find her. He’s not gonna let anything happen.
Gemma: He’s really good at what he does.
Everleigh: Pretty hot too.
Rolling my eyes, I send a reply.
Katie: Don’t even think about it, Everleigh Blackwood.
Everleigh: I’m just admiring the way the man looks in a tight black T-shirt and combat boots, okay?
Gemma: That’s her weakness.
I chuckle in agreement.
Katie: She definitely has a type. The bad boy vibe.
Everleigh: They’re the best in bed. What can I say?
She sends a tongue sticking-out emoji.
Gemma: You have daddy issues.
Katie: Or mommy issues.
Everleigh: Let’s be real, I have both.
Though I know we’re just teasing, it’s true. Tyler helped raise her due to their junkie mother and nonexistent father. When he left for the military, she moved in with their grandparents, and neither of them has had a relationship with their mom. Everleigh didn’t let it define her, though, and neither did Tyler. She worked her ass off, started her own boutique, and is thriving.
Katie: I gotta get Owen to bed and then myself soon, so I’ll talk to you guys later. Can’t wait for the grand opening next weekend!
Gemma: OMG, I’m so nervous but excited! I’m so ready for it to be here.
Katie: I have no doubt it’s gonna be amazing!
Everleigh: There’s an open bar, though, right?
Gemma: Good night.
Everleigh: What? I’m just asking!
My face hurts from smiling so much.
Katie: Night!
I read Owen a chapter from his book, and he quickly falls asleep. Once I double-check that the windows and doors are locked, I make myself a cup of tea, then crawl into bed. Though it’s just past nine, I call Noah and talk to him for an hour before falling asleep.
Chapter Ten
NOAH
It’s the day the entire family’s been waiting for—the gym’s grand opening. I arrive early with Dad to help set up the tables with the treats Belinda made for the hundreds of people expected to stop by. Eric joins us too, but he stays out of sight. I’ve almost stopped noticing him around because he’s stealthy as hell. The past nine days have been quiet, but Eric’s convinced this is the calm before the storm. He’s still been keeping watch on Loretta, though she’s not as suspect as she was before. There’s been no sign of Brittany or Anthony, and I’m hoping that means she’s given up and dropped her vendetta. Katie doesn’t believe that’s the case, though, and neither does Eric, so we’ve been extra careful.
Within the hour, most of Lawton Ridge and some of Mobile will arrive to congratulate Tyler and Gemma. Opening a new business around here is a big deal because it doesn’t happen too often. Gemma went all out and hired a DJ, a hot dog truck, and set up arts and crafts booths for the kids. She’s also giving away a ton of prizes, from yearly memberships to big-screen TVs. It’s been the talk of the town all week.
Before the excitement fully commences, Katie arrives looking as gorgeous as ever with her hair pulled to the side. Her lips are ruby red, and she’s dressed in some tight jeans and a top that shows me the softness of her neck. When she comes closer, I pull her into my arms. Owen smiles, and though I’m hesitant to let her go, I create some space between us.
“Sorry,” I whisper, leaning in just so she can hear. “Can’t help myself. You’re so goddamn beautiful.”
When I push away, she laughs and grins. Today’s a big deal for more than one reason. This is the first time we’ve been seen together in a public setting, and I interlock my fingers with hers so everyone knows she’s my girl. Many haven’t forgotten what happened with Gabe, and I’m sure we’ll be fueling the rumor mill until something else gets their attention, but neither of us cares. We no longer want to keep our relationship a secret, so we thought this was a good time. That way, there’s no doubt she’s mine, and I’m hers.
People begin arriving in packs, and the band starts playing a country song. Soon, it seems all of Lawton Ridge is here and in full celebration mode. Some stare while others whisper when I wrap my arm around Katie’s shoulder or hold her hand, but it doesn’t bother us. We’re not ashamed to be together. Anyone who doesn’t agree can fuck off because I don’t care about their opinions. For once in my life, I’m happy and so is Katie. I finally have what I’ve always wanted—her. And I want the whole damn world to know.
“Mom, can I get my face painted?” Owen asks as we pass the booth that has a line of eager kids waiting.