Chapter 49
49
The next morning, Keith rolled over and pulled her to him. “I could get used to this,” he whispered in her ear.
“Me too.”
“Before people arrive, talk to me about last night.”
She rolled toward him. “Last night was magical.”
“Behind your beautiful smile, there were still tears.”
She cupped the side of his face. “There was a moment when the past faded away and the future became crystal clear. In that instance, there was sadness and joy at the same time. But I do not regret sharing my body with you. I hope you understand the enormity of that for me.”
“I do understand, honey. That’s why the tears bothered me. I was scared I’d pushed too hard, too fast.”
“It was as much my decision as yours. I’m happy with the decision I made.”
“I’m happy with your decision too.” He flashed a lazy smile.
“As much as I’d love to lie here with you all day, we can’t stay long. We’ve got a lot of cooking to do, and people will start showing up soon. What time is it anyway?”
“After nine.”
“Mom!”
Michelle groaned. “Sounds like my early bird is here.” She gave Keith a quick peck then scurried out of bed, grabbing her robe on her way to the bathroom. “I’ll be there in a minute, Cade!” She walked out of the bathroom, scowling at Keith. “Get up,” she whispered.
He flipped back the covers, revealing all of his natural glory. “I was trying to be a gentleman even though I loved the sight of your cute ass.”
Michelle’s mouth fell open as he strolled to the bathroom, seemingly enjoying the look on her face. She narrowed her eyes. “Hurry up. You need to get dressed.”
“Mom? Did you oversleep?” Cade called out.
Michelle rolled her eyes as she pulled on a pair of jeans and a sweater. With her hair in a messy bun, she hurried to the kitchen.
“Good morning,” she said as she kissed Cade’s cheek. “Want some coffee? I’ll make a pot.”
Cade threw his thumb over his shoulder. “Whose car is in the driveway?”
“Mine,” Keith said as he sauntered over to Michelle. “Good morning, honey.” He kissed her gently.
“Wow, I don’t know if I’m ready for that so early in the morning.” Cade pinched the bridge of his nose as he found the boards on the floor interesting. “You know, there are just some things you can’t unsee, right?”
Keith winked. “Better get used to it. I love your mother.”
Cade stood by the counter with his mouth ajar. Finally, he looked at his mother. “Mom?”
“I love him too. He makes me happy.”
“Adam is going to shit gold bricks.”
“It’s Thanksgiving, Cade. I hope we can all be happy for one another and be thankful for the goodness we have.”
“For all of our sakes, I hope you’re right,” Cade deadpanned.
“I’d appreciate it if you’d show your mom some support, Cade. A relationship with me is a big step for her,” Keith said as he poured a cup of coffee for himself and Michelle.
“As long as my mother is happy and stays that way”—Cade looked pointedly at Keith—“I’ll always support her.”
“Good to know.” Keith took a sip of coffee.
“I’m going to put on my makeup before the others arrive. Cade, Jackie and Oscar are joining us this year.”
“Who’s Oscar?”
“Jackie’s fiancé.”
“Wow, Ms. Jackie’s getting married?”
“Seems so.”
“How’s Pete?”
“Apparently he likes Oscar, but he’s found a new girl himself.” Michelle waggled her brows. “He’s going to meet her family. That’s why Jackie and Oscar are having Thanksgiving with us.”
“Cool.”
“I’ll be back in a few to prepare breakfast.”
As soon as Michelle had left the room, Keith stepped closer to Cade. “I’d like to speak with you and your siblings privately sometime today.”
Cade furrowed his brows. “Why? Are you leaving her already and want us to pick up the pieces when you’re gone?”
Keith smiled. “No way in Hell.”
“Then there’s only one other reason you’d want to speak with all three of us.” Cade tilted his head. “Is that what this is about? Belynda and I will be easy. Adam will flip.”
“I hope he’ll see how much your mother means to me.”
“Has she met your children?”
“She’s coming out to my ranch in early December and will meet them then.”
“I’ll help you get the three of us together. If you’re keeping this meeting from Mom, it won’t be easy.”
“I’d like to surprise her, so if we can do it secretly, that’d be great.”
“What are you two whispering about over there?”
They turned to see Michelle standing in the doorway. “How much I love his mother,” Keith said with a smile. “What can I do to help you with breakfast?”
“Nothing. I’m exposing you to a traditional southern breakfast,” Michelle said with a smile.