“We’re here,” Caleb said, pulling me out of my thoughts.
I walked into my apartment and saw the same crowd that had gathered on my birthday. This time, there was no chorus of “Surprise,” just a sign that read, “Welcome home!”
Hugs, kisses, and love surrounded me. The best one came from Lucas.
“Oreo and I missed you, Mama. I’m so glad you’re better. Please don’t ever do that again.”
I kissed him and promised I wouldn’t, even though I knew some things were beyond promises. Oreo wagged his tail and licked my face while I scratched him. I cut my birthday cake, mingled for a bit, and then the medication took effect, making my eyelids heavy.
Elle noticed and led me to the bedroom. “Just sleep. I’ll take care of everything. I’ll stay with Lucas and you for a couple of days. What do you think?”
Her kindness made my chest ache, but I couldn’t burden her. “No, Elle. It’s fine. I’ll be okay. Don’t worry. It’s just the medicine.”
Caleb came in a few minutes later. “If you think you are going to be left alone with Lucas in the apartment, you’ve got another thing coming,” he said in a firm voice, tucking me in carefully. “When you wake up, you and Lucas will be staying with me for a week. Is that clear?”
His military-style order startled me for a second, but his kiss on my forehead softened it. “Rest for now,” he said gently. “I’ll be right here.”
A coupleof hours of snoozing energized me. Everyone had left except for Caleb. With Lucas and my bags packed, I realized I was secretly happy not to be staying at my apartment. In my weakened state, I wouldn’t have been able to defend myself against Jeremy or protect Lucas.
“Would you like to open your gifts now?” Caleb asked.
I nodded.
I received aDiorwatch from Simon and Sandra, a necklace and earring set from Bruce and Sophia, and a $500 gift voucher from Catherine and Connor. Donna and Elle gave me a new blouse, blazer, and makeup. Patty gave me thePuffin in Bloombook collection for my little library. Lucas handed me a card he had made himself and two of my favourite chocolates, Toblerone and KitKat.
Then I saw a small blue box with a white ribbon and the wordsTiffany & Co.printed on it.
“Open it, Mama! It’s from Caleb!” Lucas yelled excitedly.
I swallowed hard, my heart picking up speed. I hoped it wasn’t what I thought it was.
I opened the box.
Inside was a white gold ring with diamonds forming an infinity symbol.
“Um…” I looked at Caleb. “I’m sorry, I can’t accept this.”
“It’s not what you think it is,” he said quickly.
“Whatever it is, I can’t accept it,” I replied, shaking my head as I closed the box. “You’ve already given me too many expensive things. I can’t accept anymore. I won’t. I’m sorry.”
I wasn’t used to receiving so much, even when I had been with Harper. I needed to be clear with Caleb.
We hadn’t even officially started going out. Had we?
I didn’t know where I stood with him.
“It’s a promise ring,” he said firmly. “To let you know that I will always be there for you. That’s all. It wasn’t expensive, and it’s a gift. I won’t take it back.”
“Mama,” Lucas said seriously. “It’s a gift. You told me you can’t say no when someone gives you a gift, whether big or small. You just have to say thank you.”
I almost laughed.Smacked down by a six-year-old.I looked at Caleb, who was smiling widely. “I’m sorry,” I said hesitantly. “Thank you very much.”
Before he could win completely, I made him promise not to buy me anything that expensive again. He agreed, though I wasn’t convinced. I wore the ring on the fourth finger of my right hand, its weight both comforting and frightening.
After I freshened up, Taylor came upstairs to help with the bags. He expressed his concern, and when I hugged and thanked him, his face turned red.
At Caleb’s penthouse, Lucas was in awe the moment he stepped out of the elevator. After meeting Martina, I asked her and Taylor to join us for dinner, which was a first for them. They waited for Caleb’s nod of approval, and we shared a delicious meal together.
