That One Summer: A Collection of Steamy Contemporary Romance

Chapter 8

Carl secured the houseand used the patio as his exit. The taste of her lingered in his mouth; her scent was trapped in his mustache and driving him wild. Her aroma was intensely arousing. Carl stood at the gate and closed his eyes. He indulged in reliving their intimacy in his mind, savoring every moment of passion.

His conversation with Jayel regarding Ty also came back to him. Carl seethed with anger at Ty’s disrespectful treatment of her, as if she meant nothing. To Carl, she was the most precious person in the world. Determined not to let it go, he resolved to confront Ty that very day. Furthermore, he planned to express his feelings for Jayel and lay bare his intentions toward her to Brian and Adele. He could not continue living with Jayel merely in the shadows of his thoughts as an unattainable ideal.

In Carl’s mind, Jayel was his woman, his chosen partner. However, he understood the importance of involving her in his decision to inform her parents. Every step forward needed to be taken with her by his side. Carl was unwavering in his determination to ask Jayel to be his wife.

As he made his way to his truck, Carl’s cell phone rang, prompting him to fish it out of his front pocket.

“Hello, Above Water Plumbing and Heating, this is Carl Peterson speaking. How can I help you?” Carl’s phone automatically switched to Bluetooth as he started the engine.

Brian’s deep voice resonated through the speakers. “It’s me, Carl.”

“Hey, what’s going on, man?” Carl backed the vehicle down the driveway. “Are you calling about the hot tub? It’s all fixed and working perfectly.”

“I’m glad to hear that,” Brian cleared his throat, “but that’s not why I’m calling. I’m calling about Jayel. Was she awake? Did she speak with you?”

Carl shared his concerns about his conversation with Jayel, omitting the details of their intimate moments. He informed Brian about his intention to travel to Virginia and talk to Ty. Brian was eager to learn more about Carl’s plan. As they talked, Brian’s line started to click.

“Wait a moment, that’s my wife calling on the other line.”

While waiting for Brian, Carl texted Reggie, inquiring about the readiness of the jet for a flight to Virginia. Reggie assured him that he was taking care of it and asked if a crew was needed. Carl explained that no crew would be necessary as he intended to return promptly and be back before the dinner hour. Reggie confirmed that it would be arranged, and the jet would be ready within the hour.

Brian returned to the call and mentioned that Adele was on the phone with Jayel and had included him in the conversation. Brian validated Carl’s account about Ty, but based on the information Jayel provided, he seemed hesitant to support the idea of Carl confronting Ty on his own.

“Jayel told me that she loves you,” Brian affirmed. “She mentioned that her feelings for you have always been there, causing issues between her and Ty.” Carl stayed quiet. Brian continued. “Jayel mentioned that she’s grateful for the recent events. They compelled her to confront her true feelings.”

Carl was taken aback. “She actually said that?”

“Yes,” Brian confirmed. “She believes that if it weren”t for the challenges she faced with Ty, she may never have acknowledged her deep affection for you. She feels like she narrowly avoided a difficult situation.”

All the tension drained from Carl’s body, as if a wave of negative energy evaporated from him like steam. Brian noted Carl’s audible exhale.

“Are you okay, buddy?”

“Yeah, I’m good. I was just really upset,” Carl responded.

“I understand, I felt that way, too. I want you to know that Adele and I are thrilled for you. Jayel couldn’t have chosen a more deserving man,” Brian expressed warmly.

Carl felt a surge of emotions welling up inside him. He was unashamed to express his emotions before Brian. “I’m behind the wheel. You can’t have me crying and causing an accident.”

“Absolutely, safety first. I have to run now, but we’re still set for dinner tonight. I’ll see you at seven, be sharp,” Brian replied.

They ended the call simultaneously, and a new idea took shape in Carl’s mind. Without delay, he dialed Reggie.

* * *

The trio met Carl atthe restaurant, finding him already seated at the bar, quietly nursing a club soda. Carl turned toward them as Brian’s voice rang out.

“Let’s get this party started, son!” Brian declared.

Just as Carl was about to respond, his gaze fell upon Jayel, a vision of beauty. Instantly mesmerized, his smile faded, and his jaw dropped. Jayel was dressed in a stunning low-neckline two-piece outfit in Carl’s favorite colors, black and white.

The satin jumpsuit hugged her athletic form, with the top draping gracefully off her slender shoulders, creating a cape-like effect that trailed to the floor. A waist sash with a buckle accentuated her slim waist, while the straight-leg pants added an element of sophistication to her look. Jayel completed her ensemble with stylish open-toe heels that showcased a pedicure that had not been there earlier in the day.

Carl embraced her. “My God, you’re stunning.”

The pair hugged and kissed.

“Umhm,” Brian cleared his throat, “we’re still here, guys.” He pointed to himself and Adele.

Adele arched an eyebrow. “Yes, Carl, we’re right here.”

Carl and Jayel burst into laughter. “Sorry about that,” they apologized in unison.

“They’re already starting to act like an old married couple,” Adele observed.

They all shared a laugh together while Adele and Carl embraced.

“You”re looking great too, Mom,” he complimented.

“Oh no!” Adele scolded. “Let’s not go there just yet.”

“Wait until you put the ring on her finger at least,” Brian teased, laughing.

* * *

Later that evening, Carl and Jayel got engaged. Throughout dinner, Jayel and Adele admired the ring intermittently and discussed their future as a family, just as they always had in the past. Everything felt right.