Page 62 of Love, Lies, and Whiskey

“Our poor boy.” Her words were drenched in worry. “This is all so hard. I really hate my father for what he’s done.”

“I know, darlin’.” He hugged her again. “Lucas and I talked about it, and I reassured him that I don’t want to replace Josh. I also suggested that you tell him stories about him and Josh and the things they did together. We can all help keep those memories alive for him.”

“That’s a great idea,” she said softly. “My heart breaks for Lucas. This is so much for him to deal with.”

“It’s a lot for all of us, but we’ll get through it. It’s going to take time, and a lot of talking, which he doesn’t love. But like I said, we made some headway today, and that’s a good thing. He also met Cowboy and Dare today.”

“Really? I love your brothers, but how did that happen?”

“I called them when we ran out of wood. They brought some over, along with a few other things, and stayed to help. Lucas got a kick out of Dare’s antics.”

“He was okay with meeting them?” she asked with surprise. “It looked like things were tense when I drove up.”

“That wasn’t because of them. My brothers helped Lucas open up this afternoon. Things were tense because I saw him wearing the necklace I gave you, and I asked about it.”

“Oh my gosh. I’m sorry. I should’ve told you—I should’ve told him—but he’s had it for so long, I didn’t even think about it.”

“It’s okay. We talked about it, and I told him if he didn’t want to keep it, I’d understand. But he wanted to keep it.”

Her brows shot up. “That’s a good sign, right?”

“I hope so, but who knows with a teenager.”

“Tell me about it.” She sighed.

“I have a better idea. How about we set our worries aside for a few hours, and you let me wine and dine you tonight while Lucas is with his friends?”

A smile bloomed across her beautiful face. “Seeley Whiskey, are you asking me on a real date?”

“Yes, darlin’, I believe I am.”

“Then I believe I’m accepting.”

Lucas flew out the front door, looking sharp in jeans and a short-sleeved button-down shirt, his damp hair curling around his ears. “Ready to go?”

“Look at you,” Juliette said. “Is Layla Braden going to be there?”

“Mom.”

“Hugh and Brianna’s daughter?” Doc asked.

“Yes. Can we go, please?” Lucas asked.

“The Bradens are friends of mine. You’d better be good to her,” Doc said.

“Have you seen her uncle Rex?” Lucas asked. “He’s as big as Cowboy. I know better than to do anything to piss him off.”

“That’s smart, but it’d be smarter if you mind your manners regardless of who’s watching out for her.”

“Yeah, I know,” he said exasperatedly. “Be the guy who sets the standard.”

“What does that mean?” Juliette asked.

“Nothing,” Lucas said.

“Got your learner’s permit with you?” Doc asked.

“Uh-huh. Why?”