After I saw Jack with Faith in my living room singing at the top of his lungs all out of tune, I couldn’t get him off my mind. I woke up this morning, and he was my first thought, confirming I had dreamed about him when I wanted him out of my head, until I remembered Faith had invited him out this evening.
There was an annual charity event at school for underprivileged children during Christmastime, and Faith wanted to help raise money for the foundation. It was an absolute must for her. I wouldn’t deny her the opportunity because she wanted to give back to the community, but I had second thoughts after she informed me that she wanted Jack to tag along too.
Faith had sparked the idea of them dressing up for fun, and Jack went right along with it. It was a thoughtful plan,but this festive activity wouldn’t help with the distance part. I’d have no choice but to follow through with their arrangement of bringing smiles to families' faces. Because the grump was around, I suspected there would be some upset children, and I intended to keep the party pooper in check.
“Faith!” I called up the stairs and glanced at the clock on the wall. “It’s almost time to go!”
Thumps sounded overhead.
“But Mommy...” Faith pouted when she came down the steps with her shoulders slumped. “I need makeup. Mr. Timber has his, and I can’t go without.”
Chip barked. We all glanced down at him. He sat with the makeup kit in his mouth.
“Good boy, Chip!” Faith exclaimed with a wide smile as she gave him a hug and took the kit. “You found my makeup!”
“Attaboy, Chip.” Jack petted his dog on the head. “I knew I brought you along for a reason.”
Jack and Faith headed for the bathroom, where he applied her makeup and got her into character. All we needed was a Christmas miracle to get me through this. That, along with enthusiasm, patience, and, hopefully, some in-tune voices.
Faith laughed at something Jack grumbled, and I could see their reflection in the bathroom mirror. My daughter beamed as brightly as ever up at a man I never thought could make her this full of joy. My heart swelled at the sight, and I couldn’t help smiling, but deep inside, I hoped everything would be alright. Jack Timber better not break my little girl’s heart. I’d strangle him.
Chip rubbed his wet nose against my hand.
“You like how happy they are together, don’t you, boy?” I bent down in front of Chip and rubbed behind his ears.
Chip groaned. He licked the inside of my forearm, leaving me slobbery kisses. His fur tickled my skin.
I giggled. “I do too, Chip. Don’t tell Jack.”
“Don’t tell me what?” Jack asked.
Immediately, I froze on the spot. I hadn’t expected that doing Faith’s makeup would be so fast. My daughter giggled behind me, and she came over to pet Chip while I let go of him. I stood up and pretended to wipe dog fur off my pants.
“That I appreciate you wanting to join us this evening for some cheerful singing.” I smiled.
“Anything for Faith.” Jack stared at me intensely. “And you too, Elle.”
Even though Jack wore the grumpiest outfit the world had ever seen, his eyes shone with such light. The brightness made me turn away and blink several times. Usually he was cold, distant, and hard to read, but within that moment, he’d laid everything out for me.
Jack Timber was grateful, joyous, and overwhelming. It was too much for me—I couldn’t handle the truth. I wasn’t prepared to accept the changes he was displaying all because of me and my daughter.
Breathe, Noelle. Take a deep breath in.
I exhaled with a gigantic forced smile. “Okay! Let’s get going.”
“Wait.” Jack held up a hand. “I have a surprise waiting outside.”
“That’s the way we’re heading, Jack,” I snapped and lowered my voice. “Outside.”
Jack held open the door. “After you.” Faith walked through while she thanked him.
Chip followed behind, while I tried to take the door out of Jack’s hand, but he wouldn’t let go.
“I don’t need your help, Jack. I never did.” I glared.
“Why the bitterness, little Elle?” Jack leaned in close and whispered in my ear. “Did I get your panties in a twist?”
More like undeniably slick. Much too wet while being near my dad’s best friend. I should hate his guts, but here I was, getting aroused as fuck.
