But as Ben’s face flickered through his mind, conviction crowded out his fear.
He loved his son.
With an unexplainable, deep-in-his-core kind of love.
And Grant knew he’d only scratched the surface.
Harriet’s lips parted before snapping shut. Without another word, she spun on her heel and stormed out of the room.
As the haze of outrage settled in her wake, Grant sat down at the desk, flipping open his laptop again. His stomach churned as the idea formed in his mind.
The next step would change everything.
And he could only hope it was the right decision.
Chapter 24
The grand opening should have been one of the best nights of Eliza’s life.
The renovations for The Calendar Café showcased beautifully beneath shimmering twinkle lights framing the windows and door, while candles flickered on every tabletop, softly illuminating the faces of friends and family members gathered to share in the celebration.
The buzz of laughter and chatter mingled with the pleasant hum of the frothing wand as Cassie manned the espresso machine, creating unique and individualized latte combinations that filled the room with the heady scent of freshly ground coffee and spices. She looked radiant in a silvery cocktail dress, partially obstructed by an apron gifted to her by Dolores with the café’s name embroidered across the front in exquisite red lettering.
“Are you having a good time?” Penny appeared by Eliza’s side, balancing a tray of mini tiramisu cheesecakes.
Eliza had spent all afternoon drizzling each one with her special coffee sauce, followed by a generous dusting of cocoa powder and a single plump raspberry. “Yes, everything is perfect,” she lied, forcing a smile. Her thoughts had remained on Grant all evening, no matter how many people had offered congratulatory hugs and well wishes.
“Are you sure? You seem a little… distracted.”
“I think I’m just feeling overwhelmed. It’s been months of work culminating in one evening. But thanks for checking on me. And for helping out.” Eliza gestured toward the cheesecakes. “Do people seem to be enjoying them?”
“Are you kidding?” Penny laughed, shifting the tray to her other hand. “Jack’s had three already. And Luke isn’t too far behind. By the way, Grant hasn’t shown up yet. And none of the guys have heard from him. Did he mention anything to you about arriving late?”
“No.” Eliza glanced at her wrist, twisting the chunky beaded bracelet Ben made for her with Sylvia’s help. He’d been so excited to give it to her earlier that evening as a gift to celebrate the grand opening.
Thinking of Ben caused an unbearable ache in her chest. What would happen now? Would Grant want custody?
Suddenly, Eliza’s throat felt tight and tears swelled in her eyes.
Mistaking her rush of emotions, Penny rubbed her arm. “Hey, don’t worry. I’m sure he’ll show up soon.”
Sniffling, Eliza nodded. “I’m sorry. I don’t know why I’m so emotional tonight.”
“Like you said, there’s been a lot of build up to this event. It’s completely understandable.”
“Thanks, Pen. Maybe I need a little fresh air.”
“Want me to come with you?”
“No, I’ll only be a minute. Besides, I think Jack is still hungry.” Eliza nodded toward the other side of the room where Jack waved his arm over his head, mouthing the words,More cheesecake.
“Seriously? Where does the man put it?” Shaking her head with an incredulous smile, Penny leaned over and planted a kiss on Eliza’s cheek. “We’re all really proud of you, Liza. Especially Maggie. I heard her tell Frank and Beverly that you and Cassie have surpassed her wildest dreams for this place.”
Tearing up again, Eliza wrapped her arms around Penny, careful not to tip the tray of desserts. “Thank you,” she whispered, grateful for the support of good friends. She had a feeling she’d need them now more than ever.
Pushing through the front door, Eliza stepped onto the cobbled sidewalk, relishing the crisp, cool breeze that rustled her loose curls against her bare shoulders. Closing her eyes, she leaned against the cold brick wall, finding solace in the shadows as she drew in a deep, cleansing breath.
She’d almost cleared her troubled thoughts when distant chanting caused her eyes to flutter open.
