Then Dad let out a humorless laugh.
“The thing is…I think I knew. I just didn’t want to admit it.”
“How?” I asked.
He gestured between us.
“You wouldn’t stop touching him. Every chance you got. And you…” He pointed at Dean. “I swear, I caught you staring at her with goddamn stars in your eyes.”
“Your daughter has that effect on people,” Dean said.
“I’ve noticed,” Dad rasped.
My heart ached for him. I held Dean’s hand tighter.
“We were going to tell you after Christmas," I said. "So we didn’t ruin the holiday for you.”
He shook his head.
“You didn’t ruin anything, Ruby. I’m just…surprised. I need some time to get used to this. I always thought your future husband would be some young buck who took you for granted. But I can see…”
Dad trailed off, studying Dean, then me.
“I can see that won’t be a problem,” he finished.
Sliding out of my seat, I crossed to his side and wrapped my arms around his neck.
“I love him, Dad,” I whispered. “I really, really love him.”
He crushed me in a hug so tight that my ribs creaked from the force of his embrace.
“I know, pumpkin. It’s written all over your face.”
After we broke apart, Mom spoke up.
“Sorry for selling you out, sweetie.”
I snorted.
“Yeah, right. You enjoyed that. Admit it.”
She shrugged, stirring a spoonful of sugar into her coffee. Then she tapped her nose.
“I’m your mother. Do you really think I wouldn’t notice that you smelled like a man had been all over you this morning?”
Dad grimaced with discomfort and scrubbed the back of his neck.
“Jesus, I did not need to know that.”
“You still didn’t have to throw me under the bus, Mom,” I protested.
“Where would be the fun in that?” she countered, breaking off a piece of cake and popping it in her mouth. “Besides, I’ve watched you flirt all over town for years. This is the first time I’ve seen you actually in love. And I figured it was best to yank the Band-Aid off before you got knocked up. You’re not pregnant, are you?”
“Mom,” I groaned, tipping my head back. “Oh my God.”
“Yep, it’s official,” Dad mumbled. “I need a drink.”
Epilogue
