Reaching back, I squeeze her calf to let her know I’m here. Shortly after that, she taps my shoulder, and we leave for her safe house.
The ride here was smooth, and we made good time, but I’m ready to spend time off my sled. I’m tired, and I’m sure Bella is, too. Thankfully, we don’t have far to go to reach our destination.
I turn off the main road onto a countryside lane with high hedges interspersed with stone walls, which makes me glad we’re on my sled. These narrow roads freak me the fuck out when I’m in a car.
A short while later, I guide the sled up the driveway of a large house. It’s an isolated spot, with only three other houses some distance away, and I wonder why Bella bought it.
I recognise Mom’s vehicle as we approach a covered garage. Coal, Nickel, Bolt, and my dad’s bikes are parked next to it.
Immediate family only then. I’m happy about that. Having everyone here would’ve been overwhelming for Bella. I want to introduce her to my nearest and dearest first.
Switching off my sled, I wait for Bella to climb off. I want a bit of time alone with her, and I know it won’t be long before my mom is out the door to greet us.
I swing a leg over and stand next to Bella. Removing my helmet, I assess her. Her eyes are red and puffy, and the tip of her nose is red, but she looks at peace. Although it’s not always easy to tellwith Bella because she’s good at hiding her emotions. Taking her helmet, I place it alongside mine on the seat and cup her face, tilting her face to mine.
She grips my wrists, holding onto me as I search her face. Her lips curl into a smile. “I’m okay,” she reassures me.
“Are you sure? We have about two seconds until my mother is out here. I’m sure Coal and my dad are holding her back.”
Bella smiles, and this time, it’s a proper one that lights up her face and forms crinkles at the corners of her eyes. “She misses you. And I promise I’m fine. Thank you for taking me and for always being there.”
“Ah, baby, I’ll always be there for you. No questions asked.” I drop my hands from her face and enfold her in my embrace.
Bella wraps her arms around me and rests her head on my chest. “I know,” she murmurs, turning her cheek to press a kiss over my heart.
Since her decision to come here this weekend, she’s been more affectionate, and I’m loving it.
I kiss the top of her head, inhaling the familiar scent of her vanilla and cinnamon shampoo. The nickname she chose suits her. She’s more Spice than Sugar.
The door creaks open, and I know our moment is over. I press one last kiss to the top of her head and take hold of her hand, turning towards the door.
“Hi, Ma.”
My mother watches us with shrewd eyes. “Copper!”
She rushes down the steps and wraps me in her embrace. I hug her with my free arm, man enough to admit that I’ve missed the shit out of her.
Does that make me a mama’s boy?
Probably.
Do I give a shit?
Fuck, no.
My mother is one of the best women I know.
Mom releases me only to cup my cheeks. “I’ve missed you, son.”
“I’ve missed you, too, Ma, but I’m okay.”
“Yes.” She runs an assessing eye over me, cataloguing all the changes since I left. “You look good.”
Then she turns towards Bella, who’s been waiting patiently, watching us with a soft expression. “You must be Bella. Thank you for watching over my boy for me.”
“Oh.” Bella’s cheeks flush with colour, and she drops her eyes for a beat before raising them again. “You’re welcome, but he does the same for me. It’s wonderful to meet you. Copper has told me a lot about his family.”
Mom laughs and reaches for Bella, who doesn’t hesitate to step into the offered embrace.
