&nbs
p; When it was clearly time for James to meet my father, I saw Aunt Madison swooping in to join us. After the round of formal handshakes and introductions, my dad asked, “So, James, what do you do?”
His confidence was incredible as he smiled widely. “Well, sir, I was in the military until I got blown up a little bit. Just enough that they kicked me out, because I slowed them down on their morning jogs.”
He actually made my father laugh loudly. “So what do you do now?”
“I signed up for the service to work on the most interesting technology. Now instead of getting dust in my eyes while I fix machines on the ground, I sit in my comfortable house and design new machines on a computer.”
“Is there much money in engineering these days?” Aunt Madison asked immediately.
“Yes, ma’am. You would be amazed at how much an engineer can make if they’ve got some real-world experience to back up their ideas. Let’s just say I’m doing quite well.”
My aunt leaned toward my father to whisper something that I think was about the year and model of the car we pulled up in, while James gently caressed my fingers to relax me.
“What are you drinking?” my father asked.
“Glenmorangie,” James replied. “I like something medium-bodied before dinner. What’s in your glass?”
My dad smiled proudly. “Tonight my brothers and I opened the ‘79 Brechin North Port.”
James nodded appreciatively. “Very nice.”
“When you’re finished yours, come over to our table for a taste,” my father said.
He nodded a goodbye and made his way to where my mother was waving him over for a photo, leaving Madison to pepper the two of us with questions.
She went from nosy to impressed in just a few minutes as James casually mentioned what neighborhood he lived in, and how he had recently purchased a three-bedroom house that backed onto a golf course. She even inspected his watch, somehow knowing that it was a limited edition with special features that was only available in titanium for one week last year.
As soon as she finally left, I turned to him. “You’re so good at saying everything people want to hear.”
He shrugged. “It’s just the truth. It’s a lot easier that way.”
“Really? I mean, it’s just…”
“What?” He smirked. “Let me guess – you’re surprised that such a big guy is a computer nerd? I’ve heard that before.” He laughed as he set our empty glasses aside then wrapped an arm around my waist.
“No, I mean…”
“It’s okay,” he said softly. “You didn’t know I had money. I wear those stupid shorts to the clinic because I don’t want them to ask me to change into a flimsy gown. I drive that older pickup truck because it still runs great, and I want to do some renovations on my house next year.”
“Just because my aunt cares about money doesn’t mean I do,” I said quickly.
“I know,” he said, turning so that he could wrap both arms around me. Even though there was only a slight hint of light jazz, it was almost like we were dancing. “But a woman definitely needs a man who has a decent home, a steady job, and can take care of her.”
“I’ve always taken care of myself,” I said, wrapping my hands around his neck. I heard his sharp inhale as my fingers trailed up slightly into the back of his hair.
“I’ve always thought it would be nice to be part of a couple where we would take care of each other,” he said softly.
“How’s your leg?” I said, instantly wishing I hadn’t brought it up. “Sorry, it’s just...you know. Caring for you.” I could hear how awkward I sounded.
“It’s fine,” he murmured, swaying us back and forth a little. “Molly, is anyone watching us right now?”
I took a tiny peek around the room, but most people were either farther away, or completely engaged in their own conversations. “No. Why?”
“I really need to kiss you, and I’d rather pretend we’re alone.”
I was already stretching up to him, his hands pressing against my lower back as our lips, then our entire bodies melted together.