“It is a big deal. You should be proud of your accomplishments.”
“I am proud enough,” I answer. “For example, today, I taught Ellie how to skate and score a goal.”
“Really? Well, we will make you a professional hockey player yet. Did you enjoy yourself, Ellie?”
“I did.” She takes a sip of her drink and then adds, “It was really fun and it helped me know Hudson better. I got a glimpse of what he loves about it.”
Taking her hand, I grin at my mom and proudly say, “I’ve turned her into a hockey fan and player all in one day.”
“You can go with me to the next game, if you want,” Whitney offers.
“Thanks. I wouldn’t mind going again,” Ellie smiles.
“Ellie, I was wondering about your family? Hudsy told me they all passed on, but what were they like?”
“Well, I was four when my parents passed, so I don’t really remember them. I just remember my aunt. She was an amazing person.”
“She gardened a lot, like you, Mom,” I input.
“Oh, I do love to garden. It relaxes me, especially since all my children are gone. If I had grandchildren that were closer, I could teach them too.”
Always with the grandkids! “That’s why Ethan’s having another one. Maybe you can talk him into letting that one stay with you part of the year. Or when Whitney finishes school and marries this Drew, they can get married, move back home, and give you grandchildren.”
“Well, I’m hoping that Whitney finishes school first. But you know, you’re not getting any younger, Hudsy. Nor am I.”
Ellie squeezes my hand as Whit says, “Hey, who said I was marrying him and why do I have to be the one to move back home? Don’t try to redirect the pressure of your old age and Mom’s craving for grandkids on me, Hudson. Better get a move on it is all I have to say.”
“How’s Dad, Mom? Is he feeling better?” I ask, trying to take the conversation away from this. I’m not comfortable. Ellie isn’t comfortable. Hell, the people two tables over probably aren’t comfortable either.
“He’s moping, ready for someone to be there to take care of him. He should be feeling better by your next home game though.”
“What is he like?” Ellie asks. “I don’t think I’ve really heard anything about him.”
“Oh, you’ll like him, dear. He’s not as outspoken as the rest of us. Whitney and Hudsy’s personalities took after me. Ethan is more like his father.”
Our food arrives, almost making my shoulders slump as I realize we’re only halfway through this dinner. Mom and Whitney excuse themselves to the restrooms and I turn to Ellie.
“Should we leave cash on the table and bail before they get back?” I ask with a chuckle.
“Um, no, it’s fine. As long as she doesn’t break out a caterer’s list for the wedding or start naming future children.”
“I am right there with you. She’s something, that’s for sure,” I say with a shake of my head.
“Was she like that with your other girlfriends?”
“The ones she met, yes. It’s been a while since she met a girlfriend, especially after she started with the baby business.”
“Oh, I thought maybe I was just special.”
“You are.” I smile, then kiss her cheek. “She’s being extra pushy because she loves you already.”
Ellie smiles a little and once the girls return, the rest of dinner is tame in comparison to the start. Ellie starts to relax, fitting in nicely with my family. I can’t say that I’m not happy it’s over as I hug my mother and sister goodbye and watch them drive away.
On our drive back to my apartment, Ellie isn’t talking. She does hold my hand the whole time, and I’m worried that my mother has done some damage. When we walk into my place, and Ellie looks tired. I know that I’m a little tired too.
“Hey, why don’t you and I go to bed early?” I pull her into my arms.
She bites her lips and nods. “Where’s your bathroom?”