My sick brother, demanding sister, Jamie’s son, and her ex had all gathered to help her through this, all while I selfishly pushed her for a commitment.
Dylan stepped aside, allowing Jamie to pull Hunter into her arms. She kissed the top of his head. “Was this your idea?”
“Actually, it was all mine,” Caleb boasted. “Hope it’s not too overwhelming, but I figured you could use better company than Eric. He still hasn’t picked up any of my cool. Sorry, I’ve tried, but some people just aren’t capable of being smooth like me.”
Jamie’s laughter was real. And it was heart-stopping.
Caleb might be a shit-disturber, but I’d never been more grateful for it.
“I hope it’s okay.” Celeste sounded almost meek. It was out of character, but I was thankful for that too.
“Are you kidding?” Jamie smiled at her. “I’m thrilled. I can’t tell you how much this means.”
“We won’t stay long,” Dylan assured her. “Hunter wanted to see you before we leave. He’ll stay the night with me if that’s all right. I figured it would be best.”
Interesting how Dylan had suddenly embraced this idea after I’d reminded him of his obligations. He’d been perfectly content to leave everything up to Jamie until I’d called.
Even more interesting was the strange look on Celeste’s face as she watched Dylan and Jamie interact. When Jamie turned back to Hunter after nodding consent, Celeste kept watching Dylan with obvious interest.
Christ. My sister had fallen for the uniform and alpha charm. Thank God she was married. I didn’t need to worry about her chasing after Dylan.
“Do you want to meet your grandpa?” Jamie asked Hunter.
“I don’t know. I don’t think so.” Hunter’s timid expression was highlighted by the death grip he had on his mother’s hands.
Jamie looked uncertainly to Dylan, but when he only shrugged, her gaze shifted to me. Silently begging for guidance.
She could admit to doubts but asking for help was still outside her comfort zone.
“Your mom wants to do the right thing for you,” I said. “But if seeing him feels too scary, that’s okay. Nothing to be ashamed of.”
“We all get scared sometimes,” Caleb added.
Hunter looked from face to face, and after a moment of contemplation, he squared his shoulders. “Okay. I can face my fear. But can you go first, Mom? I want Eric to bring me in.”
“Eric?” Jamie stepped back, looking at me with wary anticipation.
“Yeah. That’s cool.”
After an awkward silence, Jamie leaned down to hug Caleb, whispering something in his ear that made him laugh with pure joy. He’d always been the charmer, but I could see how thoroughly Jamie had charmed him right back.
Without another glance, Jamie headed toward her father’s room.
“You know where to find us.” Celeste turned to wheel Caleb back toward his room. “Don’t rush back, big brother.”
“Bye, Caleb. See you later,” Hunter called.
Whatever Caleb replied was lost on me. I was too busy staring down Dylan. Present but unwilling to get involved. Maybe he was trying, but I still didn’t like the guy.
“I’ll wait here in the lounge.” He yawned. “Let me know when you’re done with my kid.”
Ignoring Dylan’s barely hidden contempt, I focused on Hunter. Just him and me and the ball of fear he’d been trying to control. His request to have me as backup was surprising, but it meant everything.
Having a purpose—a way to help—made me feel less like a bystander.
“You nervous?” I asked.
“A little.”
