Chapter 2 Ford
FORD
I lifted up my pants and then handed Mia a washcloth, saying, ”I'll go let everyone in.”
My heart rate was still fast as I walked to the front door, passing by over-the-top Christmas decorations.
There were lights along the ceiling, decorations hanging in the windows, and even a sixteen-foot tree in the corner of my living room surrounded with piles and piles of presents for everyone in my family.
When I opened the door Mia's parents were standing there, noses pink from the cold. Each of them gave me a hug that I'm sure would be a little less warm if they knew what I had just been doing with their daughter.
I welcomed them inside, saying, “There are hors d'oeuvres on the island and drinks in the fridge. Please help yourselves while I let the others inside.”
They thanked me and went to the island as I watched my dad come down the driveway with my brother Knox, his wife, and their two kids. They must have ridden together, and I chuckled at the thought of Dad sitting in the backseat between the two carseats. I'm sure he had the time of his life.
“Hey, y'all,” I said in greeting. “Come on in.”
One by one, my family came inside. Hayes and his girlfriend. Liv, Fletcher, and their children. Bryce, carrying a bag full of gifts.
I followed them inside, shutting the door against the winter chill.
Heels clacked over my stone floors, and I looked over to see Mia coming into the room. She looked perfect as always, cheeks kissed with pink, her dress flowing perfectly over her curves, her smile warm and welcoming as she said hello to everyone.
I paused for a moment, taking it in. As if she could feel me watching, she met my gaze across the room, giving me a small smile. That was one of my favorite things about being with her.
We often went to events where we had to work the room, and I loved catching her gaze when we were apart. She always gave me a smile like we were the only two in on a secret.
“Son,” Dad said a little loudly, looking exasperated.
“Sorry, what’s up?” I asked.
He shook his head at me. “Been trying to talk to you for a minute straight. Too busy with the heart-eyes to pay attention to your old man?”
I rolled my eyes at him. “Sorry, Dad. What’s up?”
“I was asking if you wanted to get started with presents? The kids keep asking.”
“Sure thing,” I replied. I wouldn’t let them know that I already unwrapped mine.