I hugged Carol. I wanted her to make up for the years she neglected Leo. Though he never wanted for anything, being in the top private schools in the country, what he needed most was love.
Despite everything Leo had gone through as a child, he was a kind, generous, and loving man. And I was the luckiest woman in Southern California because he was mine.
20
Leo
RED EXITED OUR master bathroom in one of my T-shirts. Her pretty face was free of makeup from earlier. She smiled, and my heart raced with excitement because I knew the look on her face. It meant I was about to get lucky.
“Hey, gorgeous, come here.” I opened my arms and she settled into them. “Are you happy, Red?”
“Completely.”
“Any issues with the party? Everyone seemed to have a good time. Our parents appeared to get along.”
“I guess if anything, it was your dad being fashionably two hours late.”
“I honestly had expected as much. He was never on time for anything. I’m surprised he actually showed up… and alone.”
She lifted her head and gaped. Her open mouth taunted. “Why didn’t you tell me before the party?”
“Because I knew it would bother you. And you need to stay relaxed, Red… for the baby.”
“Yes, yes, I know. What did he give you when my mom and I were passing out cake?”
“A check.”
“A check? Why? We don’t need money.”
“No we don’t, but it’s his way. He said to buy a new car with it—a family car. Preferably from his dealership so we can pocket the rest.”
“You’re kidding. Does Mercedes even make a family car?”
I chuckled. She was so clueless about some things. “Yes, Red, they do.”
“Mercedes is an expensive brand though. I haven’t lived under a rock. What do you think we should do? Give the check back?”
“Nope. He wouldn’t accept it and would only be offended.”
“Hmm, I guess you’re right… as always.” She snuggled into my side.
I smirked. I was right quite a bit, but not always. “I think we should test drive some SUVs.”
“Okay.”
“And plan to spend Christmas in Montana.”
“What?” She popped up with the most radiant smile I’d ever seen. “Are you serious?”
“Completely. I told your parents we’d be out. Promised them, actually.” Plus, I’d just gotten their blessing to propose to Red. I already had the ring and showed it to Sally while Laney distracted Red. Sally cried when she saw it, and I was hopeful Red would also be as overwhelmed when I put it on her finger.
“You are a phenomenal man.” She kissed me. “Now, I want you to make love to me.”
“Jeez, you’re bossy,” I teased her.
“I warned you.”
“But it’s not morning.”