Chapter 21
HARRISON
“Hi.”
Her sweet giggle comes through the line like a virtual salve, instantly allowing my shoulders to ease. “Hi.” Even just hearing her voice makes me smile. Good thing, given it’s all I seem to have time for anymore.
“How are things going?”
“Busy.” Yet I’m sure it’ll get worse once the planning stages are behind us.
Since signing on with Outer Banks, life has definitely moved into the fast lane. Between meetings, planning, and collaborating with Gus to ensure the other projects Hightower Construction are committed to are proceeding as planned… well, it feels like I’m living in a tornado.
Attempting to juggle work, life with Mom, and a social life were tough before. Yet this is nearly impossible. However, each piece of this complex puzzle is incredibly important to me. I’m not willing to let any of them go. And as long as things continue as they have, I’ll keep the tightrope walk going.
“I’m excited about it.” I sigh. “These plans are amazing. I can’t wait to see it all come together.”
“It’s cool to hear you so excited about your work.” The line grows quiet, and I can’t help wonder what she’s thinking. “What’s on your mind, Harlow?” The silent tension is so prevalent, I can almost feel it through the phone. “Is something wrong?”
“No.” There’s a brief pause. “I guess I just wondered why you didn’t move to Miami. Seems like it would’ve been much easier for you to cancel your lease and bring your mother and Joyce with you.”
My lease? Why does she assume I don’t own my place? Is she fishing for me to share how much money I have? My muscles tense as memories of Stephanie start to war within me. Or is this merely a ploy for me to admit how I feel about her? I know we haven’t been dating long, but she has to know I wouldn’t want to move away from her. “My mom does much better if she’s in surroundings she’s familiar with. It’s not easy flying back and forth, but it’s a short trip. And there’s a little extra motivation for me to get back to Candy Cane Key,” I add, hoping she’ll take the hint.
Yet, before I can tell her the house is all mine, I sense commotion on the other end of the line.
“Okay, okay. Alec wants to say hi.”
“Put us on speaker.”
“Hi, Harry. It’s me, Alec. When can we come back over?”
I chuckle. There’s nothing like a conversation with a kid. They’re direct in what they want. And why wouldn’t they be? No sense fussing around about it if you can simply ask for what you want. Us adults should really take a page from their playbook. “Soon. Your mom said baseball games have started up. I want to come watch.”
I’ve managed to keep the routine going. For now, I leave early Monday morning, fly back Wednesday after work, then head back the following morning and return home for the weekend on Friday afternoon. I really lucked out finding a private biplane pilot who can cut the four-hour commute to about an hour and who’s been able to take me back and forth. While construction hasn’t begun, there are a lot of meetings and permits to be filed. We’ll make adjustments with each new restaurant that’s built, but they’ll be erected one right after the other. So, I need to stay focused.
Joyce has been a godsend. She attempts to keep Mom busier on the evenings I’m away. Yet, even though she tries to reassure me that everything is smooth sailing, I can still feel Mom backsliding a bit. But that could happen whether I’m at home or not.
“Harlow, can you send me your schedule? For the hospital and drill?” It’s hard enough to find quality time to spend with her around her work commitments, add mine, and it’s nearly impossible. The last two weekends, she was either working or with the National Guard. The next she may have off, but then there’s the boys’ schedule. But I’m certain she attends all of their games, whether they’re with their dads or not.
“Okay, I will.”
I hold off on extending an open invitation to come to the pool after their game until I know if they’re with their dads for the weekend. I know it’s odd, spending time with her exes. But they aren’t bad guys, just a little rough and tumble around the edges. And Harlow doesn’t mind having them around if it means keeping her boys closer. While the whole gang is welcome, I don’t want to put Jimmy and Rob in a bad place by having the boys ask to spend time with someone else on their weekend. And to be honest, I miss having time alone with their mother.
“I picked up something you and Justin can help me with the next time we get together.”
“What? What?” he asks excitedly.
I chuckle. “It’s nothing big, but I wanted to put out a few bird feeders. My mom likes to watch them. I gathered a few things so we can build and paint them.”
“That’s awesome! Justin!” I hear his voice echo in the distance.
“Well, that did it. He really can’t wait to see you now.” Her voice is so soothing. God, I miss her.
“They’re so lucky to have you, Harlow. You’re such a good mom.”
“Thank you. They’re good kids.”
“Yes, they are. I’m sorry my schedule is such a mess. I’ll reach out once I can figure out how to make it to a game.”
“I understand. And so do they. Don’t stress about it.”
But I do. I know what it feels like to want to spend time with someone, only to get shut out. I’m not their father, but as long as I’m dating their mother, I want them to know they’re important to me.
Crack!
“Go, Alec, go!” I’m on my feet, cheering this kid on like it’s the World Series. Rob is clapping beside me as Harlow runs over from the concession stand, her arms filled with snacks and water bottles.
Rob reaches down, grabbing a hot dog and a water.
“Babe. Why didn’t you tell me you were going to get those? I could’ve done that so you wouldn’t miss the game,” I blurt in indignation.
Harlow looks up at me like I have three heads.
“For gosh sakes, get up here.” I help her unload the remaining items, getting the distinct impression this is routine for her. Waiting on everyone.
Once she’s on the worn, dark green wooden bleachers beside me, I drop my free hand to her thigh as Jimmy reaches over for a burger, eyes never leaving his phone.
My eyes hold Harlow’s, and I drop my volume. “You need to stop.”
“What?”
“If you want something for yourself, fine. But don’t wait on these two knuckleheads. Or me.”
She slumps into me. “I don’t do it often. But when the boys have afternoon games and are with their dads, I’m never certain they got lunch first. And they’re so excited to play, they’ll never tell me. I just get a few extra while I’m there.”
“Well, if you go to games on weekends when you don’t have them, make sandwiches ahead so you don’t miss anything. Let these gorillas fend for themselves.” I bop her on the nose.
I look over to see Justin walking slowly toward home plate. From what I gather, he’s the less athletic of the two, but still enjoys playing. He takes his position, lifting his bat over his shoulder before looking in our direction. It’s only a split second, but I catch it. However I’m certain he wasn’t looking for me or his mother.
Glancing over, I see Jimmy on his phone. “Hey, heads up. Justin’s at bat.” I tell him, trying to keep my tone neutral so he doesn’t feel I’m ridiculing him. Hell, phone in hand or not, he’s already done more for Justin than my dad ever did.
Tink.
In a split-second decision, Justin changes the angle of his swing, causing the ball to bounce between the pitcher and third base. He takes off toward first like a rocket.
I’m on my feet yelling so loud it makes my ears ring. “Go, go, go!”
“Go, Justin, go,” Harlow squeals.
“Yeah! That’s the ticket, Justin.” Jimmy yells beside me.
He’s stopped at second, Alec’s on third. His little head shifts between looking at the bases, the pitcher, and the stands. He resembles a little bobblehead baseball toy.
As the next player comes up to bat, I feel my heart rate pick up. It’s a damn little league game. You’d think I was watching the Red Sox. They’ve been down by two runs all game. Taking in the crowd, I notice I’m not the only one nervous, as Rob is pacing back and forth by the fence. The sight makes me chuckle.
Crack! Holy Shit. That kid’s got some arm on him.
The parents are all on their feet, even Jimmy. Alec runs like he’s being chased by bears, with Justin hot on his trail. The ball comes flying toward the pitcher from the outfield, just as Justin crosses home plate. I’m not sure the last kid will make it home, but at least they’re tied up.
Alec and Justin haven’t begun celebrating, their attention focused on their teammate. All of the boys are screaming for him to run. As the pitcher lets go of the ball, its trajectory bound for the catcher, the last player slides across home plate and the place erupts in hoots and hollers. Justin turns to see his dad on his feet, clapping for them, and you would’ve thought someone had handed him the Commissioner’s Trophy.
I’m thrilled I was here to enjoy their game. Win or lose. But sharing in this moment is priceless.
“Did you see that?” Alec shouts as he approaches, his little bat bag slung over one shoulder. Hell, this kid is cute. Is this what Matt and I looked like back in the day? I definitely don’t recall any games that ended like this one.
“Yeah, buddy. We loved every second of it.” Harlow pulls him in for a side hug.
“You were amazing out there,” Rob adds.
“And that was a smooth bunt, Justin. I would’ve never thought to do that!” Jimmy exclaims. I swear Justin just grew two inches taller at the compliment.
“Can we all go to Harry’s place and celebrate?”
Oh, damn.
“It’s okay, sport. I’m sure your dads have?—”
“Sounds good to me.”
“I’m in.”
Well, all right then.
“Alec. You can’t just volunteer Harry’s place without asking first.”
“I did ask.”
I chuckle. He’s not wrong. “It’s okay. I’m not sure what’s at the house to eat or drink, but you’re welcome to come by.”
“I’ll stop and pick up some drinks and snacks,” Jimmy says, surprising me.
“Okay, we’ll see you there.”
Harlow and I head toward the car. There’s a pep in my step, but she seems distant. “You okay?”
“You’re so good to us. I don’t want the boys… well, all four of them, wearing out our welcome.”
I stop, turning to make sure I have her full attention. “Harlow, they aren’t. Promise. I can say no. So long as my mother isn’t inconvenienced, and I get to play naked Twister with you after they leave, I’m good.”
Her face brightens.
“Let’s go.”
The boys and their dads arrive at the house about an hour later. Luckily, Harlow had her beach bag in the car so they could change into different clothes. While Alec would’ve been fine swimming in his birthday suit, I have a feeling his more reserved brother wouldn’t.
We spend an hour or so around the pool when Alec asks, “Can we make the birdhouses now?”
I’d nearly forgotten. Looking at my watch, I consider the time. These won’t take an hour. The sides of the birdhouses are already cut to size. They only need wood glue, nails, and a paint job.
“Sure, if it’s okay with your dads.” I’m surprised the two have joined us at the outdoor kitchen as the boys swim, versus electing to watch sports in the den.
“Fine by me,” Rob answers.
Jimmy nods, taking a swig from his dark amber bottle.
Retrieving the items from the back of my truck, I return with everything we need and lay them out on the patio table. “Justin, you sit here with your dad.” I point toward Rob. “Alec, I’ve got yours here.” Placing the shared items in the center of the table, I intentionally take a step back, hoping both fathers will jump in to assisting their kids. You definitely don’t need to work in construction to figure out these little houses.
Harlow starts to sit down beside Justin when I grab her elbow. “Let him do it,” I mouth, dipping my chin to Jimmy.
Her eyes, previously wistful, take on a look of concern.
“I think I have some paint in the garage once you’re all done.” I know this is a gamble, but I think Jimmy’s coming around.
Baby steps.
Walking back up the stairs from the garage with two small cans of paint and a few paint brushes, I see Joyce walking toward the kitchen.
“Hey. Mom okay?”
“I think she’s tired.”
She’s been tired a lot since I’ve started working with Outer Banks. A wave of guilt washes over me. “Am I doing the wrong thing, Joyce? Taking this job?”
She puts her hand on my arm. “No, Harrison. There’s no way to know what’s going on with Carolyn. Most days she seems fine, others she’s a little more lost. Sadly, I think regardless of what we try, it’s the nature of the disease. Please don’t take on the blame for this. She’d want you to live your life. And on the days she’s more outgoing, seeing you with Harlow and the boys makes her immensely happy.”
I didn’t realize how badly I needed to hear that reassurance. I’ve been constantly second guessing myself.
“Now, enjoy your friends.”
“Thanks, Joyce. The boys are making birdhouses for Mom. I’m hoping it’ll lift her spirits when I’m gone.”
She pats me on the arm again before walking into the kitchen toward the teapot.
As I return to where everyone is seated, I’m shocked to see Rob and Jimmy fully immersed in the build. Alec is excitedly hammering nails into one side of the birdhouse, Rob preparing to lose a finger. While Jimmy is trying to mount the roof on the other one, his lips pressed in a tight, narrow line as he concentrates. All the while, Justin is beaming up at him. My eyes start to water. If only my dad could’ve given a shit. I would’ve held on to these memories for years.
“You okay?” I hadn’t noticed Harlow moving to stand beside me.
“Yeah, why?”
“Well, you put the paint supplies down, then started to rub your chest. They couldn’t have been that heavy. Are you having chest pain?”
That damn ache must’ve returned. You’d think I’d be used to it by now. “No, I’m good.” I pull her to my side, placing a kiss on her temple.
“Awwww,” Alec teases.
I probably should tone down any public displays of affection. I mean, we haven’t declared that this relationship is serious. And I don’t need to give these boys mixed signals that I’m anything more than a good friend to their mother. Then there’s the added element that her ex-husbands are right here.
But I miss her.
“Why don’t we take these home with us and finish them so your mom and Harry can enjoy the rest of the night?” Rob asks.
I almost interrupt him when Harlow digs her nails into my arm.
“Is my mermaid a little needy?” I whisper into her ear.
A curt nod is all I need to make me keep my big trap shut.
“Awe, really?” Alec whines.
“C’mon, man. I haven’t seen you in two weeks. Why don’t we pick up a pizza for dinner?”
“Extra cheese?”
“You got it.” Alec and Rob high five each other. I don’t miss the grin on Harlow’s face.
“Thanks, Harry.” Justin comes over and gives me a hug. This fuckin’ kid.
“I didn’t do anything. You guys gave me the best afternoon ever with that win. I’m so glad I was able to be there.”
The boys head out, and as excited as I am to be alone with their mother, I have to admit it. I’ve missed those two.
Harlow and I lie back on one of the oversized chaise loungers, each with a glass of wine. It’s been a great day. I wish Mom had been able to spend time with us, but Joyce is right. I have to accept the moments of clarity when they appear.
Placing my wineglass down, I roll to face her. “What’re you thinking about?” A lock of hair dances in the breeze, and I tuck it gently behind her ear.
“I can’t believe you did that.”
“What?”
“Got Rob and Jimmy to step up for the boys today.”
“I didn’t do anything. That was all them.”
She gives me a stern look. “Harrison, you set things in motion. I don’t know how you have this effect on them. But for the boys’ sake, I’m truly grateful.”
“I never had that with my dad. For as much as you’ve wanted the two of them to be better with the boys, they showed up. Tag-team dads or not, they’re in the picture. Whether they’re on their phones or watching the game, they’ve made a decision to be in their kids’ lives. It’s more than I ever had.”
Harlow looks at me, eyes wide with understanding. “Yeah, mine showed up every now and then. Yet I don’t have any illusions that it was for me or Mom. Only a free place to stay.”
My heart squeezes. Hell, I don’t know which is worse. “I’m glad it worked out. Jimmy and Rob could’ve resented me for forcing their hands. But I saw an in, and I took it. But all of this is gravy, Harlow.”
She snuggles back into me, and sighs. “You’re right. It still made me happy to see. That darn look on Justin’s face today was tugging at this momma’s heart.”
“Yeah. I’m glad I was able to be at the game today. Those are moments you don’t get very often.”
“You make me happy.” Harlow’s voice is so soft, I almost missed it.
“I’m glad.” I worry this relationship may be hard to nurture with all I have on my plate. There’s no one else I want. No one. Yet, as much as I want to share how happy she makes me, I can’t help but try and pull back a little.
I’m so overwhelmed by managing all of the complex cogs in this wheel of life. My business, while doing incredibly well, requires constant effort to manage properly. And even though the flights aren’t long, the perpetual bouncing between towns adds another layer of strain. Add to that the continued worry about my mother, since I can’t see first-hand that she’s okay, and it’s no wonder I’m not sleeping well. I knew this would be stressful, I just didn’t realize how stressful.
Feeling Harlow shift beneath me, I glance down to see her yawning. I know we want to enjoy the few moments we have alone, but I don’t think either of us has the energy for much.
“Hey, it’s been a long day. You want to take a shower and go to bed?”
With her eyes still closed, she grins up at me. “Yes. That sounds perfect.”
Standing from the lounge chair, I reach for her hand, and we head inside. After the last few weeks, spending the weekend with her is a luxury. But I still need to be careful and take this slow.
I turn on the spray, take off my clothes, and grab a plastic sleeve to place over my cast while I shower. Thank god this thing comes off soon. Stepping inside, my excitement grows as Harlow exaggeratedly removes each piece of clothing. The pièce de résistance being the way she bends and shimmies her ass as she slowly peels off her pink panties. I grin as she drapes them over the towel rack by the door.
“Get in here,” I growl.
She steps inside and reaches for the soap, taking her time as she lathers me up. I don’t miss the extra attention she gives my hardening cock and the glide of her soft hand as she cups my balls. Placing her hands on my shoulders, she encourages me to rotate so I can rinse the front as she lathers up my back.
Grasping my dick, I give it a few strokes to ease the pressure as she runs her hands over my ass. Hell, this woman. As I turn back around, I almost advise it’s her turn, but I’m stopped short when she drops to her knees. My heavy cock bounces at the sight of her. “Harlow,” I groan.
The gentle teasing is over as she grips the base of my engorged dick and slides her mouth down the length of me. She tries to take as much of me as she can, choking several times as I hit the back of her throat.
Grasping a handful of her hair, I hold on as she bobs up and down on me. With one hand around my cock and the other massaging my balls, I brace for what I know will be a thunderclap of an orgasm.
The sensation of her warm, wet mouth engulfing me as water trickles down her back to that curvy ass is pushing me close to the edge. Droplets dance over her tattooed arm, bringing back memories of the fantasies I’d have of her, long before I knew the incredible woman this mermaid was.
“I’m going to… Fuck, Harlow,” I pant.
Knowing I’m close, her pace picks up. As her grip firms around me, I can feel my balls tighten.
“Baby, you’re going to make me come.”
Her gorgeous eyes flick up to meet mine in a silent acknowledgment. Harlow withdraws her hand, reaching around to grip my ass, digging her nails in as she takes me as deep as she can.
Holding her hair tightly in my left fist, I fuck her mouth until my release spills down her throat. Her swallows cause me to shudder. Taking in a few quieting breaths, I try to calm the pulse pounding in my ears, anxious to repay the favor. But I can’t do what I need, one handed in the shower.
“I want to clean you up. Watch the soap dance over your beautiful skin before you dry off.” How had I gotten so lucky? My mind conjures up the perfect way to satisfy my hunger, a devilish grin crossing my face at the thought. “Afterward, come to bed and bring me a snack.”
Standing up, she gives me a confused scowl before I grasp the body wash, squeezing above her perfect breasts, watching the droplets roll down her sexy curves. I allow my ravenous eyes to follow their path, traveling the length of her. “I thought you told me I shouldn’t wait on you.”
I scrunch my face in confusion as I attempt to clean her glorious skin with one hand.
“At the ballgame. When I brought the snacks back from the concession stand.”
The lightbulb goes off. “Ah. Yes. And I meant it. But let’s make an exception this time.”
She wrinkles her nose, probably wondering if I’ve picked up some bad habits from her exes.
I give her ass a playful slap before stepping out of the shower, watching as she turns off the water and reaches for a towel. Sliding the protective cover off of my cast, I dry myself off before walking to the door. “Now, hurry up. I’m hungry.”
“What the?—”
“Chop. Chop.” I mimic, clapping with my bum arm and good hand.
Her mouth falls open briefly before she crosses her arms over those beautiful tits, about to hurl some sassy comeback in my direction.
“I’m going to need you to sit that sweet pussy on my face so I’ll be sated and can get a good night’s sleep.”