She blushed and ducked her head. He’d have to get used to this demure side of her. “Or crazy.”
“We’ll be crazy together.” He cast her a wink, then turned his eyes to the road. “What’s the timeline we’re looking at? When is your lease up on the apartment?”
“I gave up my apartment when I went home to Pennsylvania, and all my furniture was rental pieces since I was hardly ever there. A part of me knew I wouldn’t be returning, even if I didn’t know the plan. So, to answer your question, there’s nothing keeping me from staying here now. I’ll start apartment hunting tomorrow.”
“I’ll ask my buddies at work. They’ll know the best places.”
“Thanks.” Her voice increased a pitch, gave off a hint of insecurity. “Me moving here, it’s not too much too soon is it?”
Spotting an old dirt driveway, he jerked the truck off the road and put it in park. Unbuckled and slid closer to her, cupped her chin in his hand. “We’ve both witnessed how quickly life can change. Why put off what we both want?”
“It’s a little scary with a lot of unknowns.”
“Whatever comes our way, we’ll face together.” He ran his thumb along her jaw. “One of us would have to move eventually if our relationship is to thrive, and I don’t take lightly that you’re the one uprooting and moving to me.”
He understood well the gift she offered. He couldn’t imagine leaving South Louisiana with its majestic sunsets, and his family roots and not to mention top-rated fishing opportunities. Like a prodigal, he’d left once and didn’t plan to leave again, but he knew he would have if that’s what Monica wanted.
“I’m not without motive, you know.” Her eyes danced. “And I might require compensation from time to time.”
His lips quirked. “Oh yeah? What kind?”
“I’m thinking a kiss or two for starters.”
“I’d be happy to oblige.” His voice dropped to a ragged whisper. He slid his hand to the nape of her neck and pulled her closer.
They’d kissed before but never like this, not with meaning and promise. This single roadside kiss changed his life, and he’d never look back. The future looked bright with Monica by his side.
ChapterTen
“Would you prefer I go in first and tell my mom about you, or do you want to come with me?” Rex looked at her from the driver’s seat as they sat in his mom’s driveway.
Her nerves of steel weren’t what they used to be, but she wouldn’t chicken out. “We’re in this together. I’ll go with you.”
“That’s my girl.” Rex slid out of the truck and met her on the other side.
She drew a calming breath and braced herself for the coming introduction. Hand in hand, they walked to the door. Rex had barely rung the doorbell, when his mom opened the door.
Monica recognized Stella Fontenot from pictures and watched as mother threw her arms around her boy, welcoming him home. Monica stepped back allowing them this moment.
From initial observations, she liked Stella. Her children clearly took after her in their dark features and what Stella lacked in stature, the boys made up for in their height. The love she held for her children shone brightly in her eyes, but Monica had a distinct feeling she was also a force to be reckoned with.
Stella stepped back from her son with her hand to her mouth, before extending a hand to greet Monica. “Oh my, where have my manners gone. I am Mrs. Fontenot, but please call me Stella.”
Rex pulled Monica to him, held her hand possessively. “Mom, I’d like you to meet Monica Hughes.” He stopped short and glanced at her. “My girlfriend.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you officially.” Stella smiled broadly and brought Monica into her arms with an enthusiastic welcome. “Come inside where it’s dry. A pot of coffee just finished brewing. We’ll sit a spell and chat.”
Stella led her through a beautifully decorated foyer and hallway before reaching the kitchen that boasted a breakfast nook which overlooked a grove of satsuma trees.
“This is a beautiful view. I imagine it’s spectacular on a sunny day.”
“This is my favorite spot to spend a quiet morning inside.” Stella pointed to the grove of trees. “In another month, the satsumas will be ripe and add a burst of color to the landscape.”
She sat them at a table in the nook and then walked to the coffeepot. “How do you take your coffee, dear?”
Monica began to stand and tell her she could get her own, but Rex’s mom promptly sat her back down with a smile. “After years of raising four kids who are out of the house now, I need to feel useful. Would you like sugar or cream?”
“Just a teaspoon of sugar, please.” Monica lowered herself to the chair.
