I shook my head, gripping her neck and pulling her face closer to mine. “No such thing. I know this shit is happening fast, but on my life, I mean everything I say.”
She agreed before tears slowly slipped from her eyes. “I hear everything you’re saying and I believe you. I’m just not used to this, to anybo?—”
“Then get used to it, Greene. I meant what I said. I’m not going anywhere. I’m standing ten toes here with you and Ethan. I’on know ’bout the mini cow though, ’cause that shit is creepy as fuck, but I’m here, baby.”
Chapter 8
Greene
Nothing prepared me for the joy in my baby’s eyes when he laid eyes on his mini cow. I didn’t know how the hell the responsibilities or caring for this thing would work,but seeing his happiness was worth all of the confusion. He spent the entire morning messing with it and trying to name her.
I was also shocked to see my father come out of the house today, also smiling at the joy in his grandson’s features. It brought joy to my heart, and even some laughter when Ethan kept trying to get Hudson to come pet her. He was so creeped out by its existence that he wouldn’t. Hell, the only reason he came off the porch was to meet my father who immediately knew who he was.
After spending the entire morning in mini cow land, we finally found our way to the town Jubilee that was in full swing. There were several stands and a few rides for the kids. Of course Ethan insisted on trying out everything, so I stuck close to him while Hudson stuck close to me. Even though I didn’t have all the Christmas spirit, I absolutely loved the Jubilee. It had a way of putting you into the spirit no matter how you felt. I think that’s why my father stayed away from town during this time, because he felt guilty about being able to experience all of this and my mother wasn’t here.
Hudson spoke then kissed the side of my face. “I’m gonna make you and him happy, Greene with an e. Then I’ma keep y’all that way.”
Instead of asking him how he was so sure, I nodded. “I believe you.”
“Good.”
I giggled at the confidence in his tone. He wasn’t even cocky, just had this air about him that let me know he was about it. It was definitely some midwestern shit. “I never asked, but what are you gonna do here? Stare at a wall, bull ride, or become a cowboy?” I had a teasing smirk on my face when I asked.
He laughed, his eyes going from me to Ethan on the merry-go-round. “As nice as becoming a cowboy sounds, baby, I gotoffered a coaching job down at the high school. Modest living and still being able to see a few touchdowns here and there.”
“Nothing about you is modest, but congratulations.”
He leaned down, his lips close to my ear before he started to speak. “Congratulate me in a different way tonight, Mrs. Claus.”
Heat rushed my cheeks as I couldn’t help the smile forcing itself to the surface. “Sure will.”
“Bet.” He kissed my ear, sending heat into more places than my cheek. There was so much snow and this cold out, yet this man had me feeling like a damn volcano. I was ready to erupt at any minute with the slightest touch from him.
I was so caught up in Hudson that I didn’t realize the ride Ethan was on was over until he tugged at my jacket.
“Did you see me, Mama? I stood up a little on the horse.”
“I did. Such a big boy.” I smiled down at him. Of course I lied. I didn’t see anything, but I wouldn’t dare tell him I wasn’t watching. There was something about kids needing to make sure you saw them do everything.
“Hudson, did you see me?”
“Yup, I did. C’mon over here and let’s get hot chocolate from right there.”
I glanced over to see where he was pointing and my eyes landed on the Cocoa Express truck. Right next to it was the sweets stand. That was right up my alley because their hot chocolate cookies were to die for. I was definitely about to go over there and buy up the cookies.
I reached for Ethan’s hand, but I looked up and he had grabbed Hudson’s hand. It happened so naturally and caught me completely off guard. My son never really took to people, but he took to Hudson almost instantly. Playing the background, I found myself looking around while following them to the area where the truck was parked. Of course I B-beelined for the sweets stand next to it.
I had just purchased several hot chocolate cookies when I heard my name. I looked up and a very pregnant Versai was motioning for me to come here. She stood in the heated area near Guuds.
I nodded then walked over to where Hudson and Ethan stood in line. After pointing over to Versai, I let him know I’d be over there when he finished. I shouldn’t have been shocked when my son didn’t budge but instead opted to stay in line with Hudson.Hell nah, this nigga was stealing my baby.
By the time I reached Versai through the thick crowd, she had this knowing smirk on her face. “Oh Doc, you got it bad.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I played coy while digging into one of the paper bags to eat a piece of my cookie.
“The hell you don’t. You may as well have hearts in your eyes.”
I waved her off. “Whatever, I see you’re still pregnant.”
