Page 64 of Full Throttle

“What time?” He sounded so eager, I wanted to smile.

“Whatever time you want.”

“I’m up at eight.”

“I’ll get Halton to arrange it with your mom.”

“Can we go to the garage?”

“Absolutely,” I said. “I’ll introduce you to all the guys.”

“And Charly?”

I laughed. “I couldn’t keep her away if I tried.”

“Maybe Rosa would make some food for lunch?” he asked.

“If I asked, she would.” I grinned as he lifted an eyebrow. “So, I’ll ask.”

He studied me. “You’re okay, Dom.”

I grinned, almost giddy. “Thanks, Josh. I like you too.”

He nodded. “Okay. So, I’ll see you next week, right?” There was a look of worry on his face and in his voice. As if he needed reassurance.

I put my hand on his shoulder and squeezed. “Nothing will keep me away now, Josh.”

He had exchanged cell phone numbers with Cherry and me. “I’ll text you as soon as I know the time, and you can confirm with your mom.”

“Great.”

Cherry stepped forward. “May I give you a hug?”

He looked startled, then nodded. “Sure.”

Cherry hugged him and smiled. “See you next week.”

“Okay.”

He turned to go, and I had to blink away the sudden moisture in my eyes. It shocked me when he turned back. “See you next week, Dom.” Then he held out his fist.

I fist-bumped him and nodded. “Next week.”

“Thanks for lunch. It was, ah, great to meet you.”

I met his gaze. “The swing thing you told Cherry about? It was real, Josh. That was me. Us. And I hope one day you’ll remember more.”

He frowned, then began to smile. “I hope so too.”

This time, I didn’t hold back as he walked away. The tears rolled down my face, and I didn’t care who saw me.

It had been an incredible day. I had lunch with my son, and he fist-bumped me. It was my first physical contact with him since he was a toddler. The sensation was overwhelming.

I pulled Cherry into my arms and held her.

“Thank you,” I murmured.

“You’re welcome. And it’s just the beginning,” she whispered.