“We love you, Mom," Kayne said.
“We just want you happy,” LaMarkus added.
“I know, and I am happy. I’m happier than I’ve been in a long time.” Rosemary smiled, and it brightened up the room.
Alistaire had to admit Rosemary, who was much older than him, looked and acted like a vibrant woman in her late fifties. Her salt and pepper hair added an aura of sophistication and class that couldn’t be touched.
“After your father died, I thought a part of me had gone with him. I didn’t think I’d be able to feel, let alone breathe, but I did a little at a time. For years, I focused on building Vale Valley, making it the town it is today, and, Chance, I’m proud I left it in your hands because you are taking it to higher heights. The magic is stronger, and the residents are happy. We’ve had a few bumps in the road, and I’m sure we’ll have more in the future. Once I saw the town was growing, I focused on love, not for myself but for others. Doing that mended some of my heart, but it never felt whole, until one day I opened my eyes and I realized he was there waiting for me.”
She paused for a few seconds, and Alistaire could feel the mix of tension building in the room.
“Mom, what are you trying to say?” LaMarkus asked.
Rosemary walked over to her youngest son and cupped his cheeks. “I know how much you loved your father, and I do too, but I can’t stay alone, LaMarkus. It’s time I move on, son. I hope you’ll understand you need to be loved and be comforted by the touch of another.”
LaMarkus stared at Rosemary for a few minutes before standing and pulling her into a hug.
“Do you love him, Mom?”
“Yes, I do.”
Kayne stood and walked over to the mother and son. “Is he a good man?”
“If I told you he’s so good he’s like a god, would you believe me?”
“You’ve never lied to me before,” Kayne answered.
“Then yes, he’s a very good man.”
“So, when do we get to meet this guy you’re in love with?” Grayson asked.
“You’ve already met him, boy,” Chance answered.
“We have?” Moniqué turned to look at her brother-in-law.
“For a bunch of people who sit around and gossip, you guys sure miss things,” Alistaire said, causing them to turn and look at him. Alistaire rolled his eyes. “I’ve been a cop for most of my life, and I’ve seen things a time or two over the years.”
“So, are you going to tell us or not?” Moniqué asked.
“It’s the business tycoon Odin Boroson—her best friend's father, the actor, or should we call him first husband, Braxton Boroson.”
Alistaire would have laughed at the way their heads turned to look at Rosemary.
“Is he right?” Kayne asked.
“Yup.” Rosemary chuckled, and her face brightened.
“How the hell did we miss that bit of information?” Sirius asked.
“That’s because you guys are too busy with your lives to pay attention. I’m a single cop who sees more than I’m willing to say.”
“Damn, Nana. That’s seriously a boss move. Falling in love with your best friend’s father,” Moniqué laughed. “Taking lessons.”
“Lesson’s my ass,” Cordell said beside her. “You’re my woman, don’t think I’ll let you go.”
Moniqué smirked. “Have you been taking daddy lessons from Chance?”
Cordell leaned down and kissed her. “I’ll show you what I learned later.” He winked, and Alistaire could see the flush spread from Moniqué’s face down to her body.
