by Lucinda Race
“Watching a movie.”
Jack rubbed a hand over his eyes. He glanced over his shoulder to see if Peyton and Liza were still near the kitchen counter. Satisfied they were alone, he asked, “What’s the plan now?”
“I’m taking Liza out to dinner, maybe Sawyers. Just to let her be an adult and not Super Mom.”
“You’re a good brother.” The sounds of excited boys stopped him from going any farther. “I gotta go.”
“We should get out to the kitchen before the rug rats drive themselves to the diner.”
Jack clapped Leo on the back and chuckled as he patted his jeans pocket. “Little brother, I’m one step ahead of them. I’ve got the keys right here.”
As they entered the kitchen, Liza was kissing her boys’ cheeks. “Are you going to be good for Uncle Jack and Peyton?”
The boys grinned.
Johnny said, “We will, Mommy. Promise.”
George crossed his hand over his heart and Johnny tugged on his brother’s arm. “Come on.”
Jack ruffled the boys’ hair and smiled at Liza. Then his gaze came to rest on Peyton. He grinned. “I think we’re ready to hit the road.”
He pulled open the door and looked at Liza. “Don’t worry about a thing. And if we get home before you, we’ll put the kids to bed.” He pointed to Leo. “He’s buying you dinner tonight. So order something expensive.”
Jack winked at his brother and ushered the boys and Peyton out the door. She flashed him a questioning look, but he’d fill her in later.
23
Between three very active little boys and the sugar rush from the strawberry milkshakes they had to have with dinner, Peyton was pleased to see Jack take their bouncing off the proverbial wall in stride.
They walked into the bowling alley. The music was thumping down near the lanes, but at the counter it wasn’t as bad; at least she could hear the kids talking. The air smelled like old shoes and sweaty feet to her. At the other end, the pinball machines emitted clacks and dings to get the attention of people. It was early and there were a few lanes occupied with other families. “Jack, let’s get a lane with bumpers.”
Johnny looked up at her with a very serious expression for a seven-year-old. “Peyton, we don’t need bumpers. We’re big kids now.”
Jack knelt down and whispered in the boy’s ear. She couldn’t hear what he said but watched Johnny nod, still wearing the serious look on his face.
“Okay, Uncle Jack.” Johnny flashed her an angelic smile. “I’m gonna be on your team.”
Jack grinned and held up his hands. “Innocent.”
She held out her hands to Jack’s nephews. “Let’s go get our shoes while Uncle Jack and Owen take care of getting our lanes.”
Owen tagged along with Jack. She watched them go. Every time they were together, she melted inside just a little. Jack was amazing with her son.
She looked down and grinned at the boys. “We have to get bowling balls, right?”
George grinned and pulled his hand away. “I want a red ball.”
She chuckled. “The right color is very important.”
“Peyton.” George gave her a sidelong look. “Mommy says you’re good for Uncle Jack.”
Curiosity piqued, she said, “Really?”
“Uh-huh. Uncle Jack smiles all the time now.”
She let her gaze slide to Jack and Owen, who were waiting for their turn at the high counter. “That’s nice to hear.”
Not to be outdone, Johnny chimed in next. “Mimi says it’s too bad you and—” He gave George a shove. “Don’t step on my foot.”
She swallowed her laugh. “Boys.” She placed a hand on their shoulders. She wanted to ask what else was said, but she couldn’t drill the kids.
George poked him. “Mommy and Mimi talk about you all the time.”
Peyton had a flash of worry. What did Sherry think? Was she concerned about her and Jack rekindling their relationship? Instantly, old insecurities reared their ugly head. Unsure how to respond, she was grateful when Jack and Owen rejoined them.
Jack ushered the boys and Peyton the last few steps to the shoe rental. She told the girl behind the counter the sizes; thank goodness Liza had mentioned what they’d need.
Jack said, “We’re in lanes ten and eleven, and yes, they have bumpers. I’m not taking any chances of you beating me tonight. I need all the help I can get.” He brushed Peyton’s cheek tenderly with the back of his hand. “I’m not sure if I want to win or lose.”
She could feel warmth flood her cheeks. “Either way, we’re both winners.”
He gave her a wink. A hint of amusement flickered in his sexy hazel eyes.
The wail of a little boy brought her back to the present. Jack stepped in and resolved the new crisis. Finally, smiles filled three young faces and Peyton glanced over their heads at Jack. She mouthed thank you. Thank heavens he did get the bumpers—it was one way to avoid tears and squabbling between the kids.
* * *
The night had been a huge success. Everyone bowled well. On the ride back to Liza’s, the boys had fallen sound asleep within minutes. Peyton looked over the seat and then at Jack. She slid her hand across the console and took his. “I’m guessing everyone had fun.”
He lightly squeezed her hand. “I had a blast watching you and the boys. It was so funny when Johnny was teaching you how to bowl.” He brought her hand to his lips and grazed her knuckles. “Thanks for being such a good sport.”
“I had fun, and so did Owen. It’s good for him to be with the kids.”
“It’s good for the boys too. And Liza.”
“Yeah, you still haven’t told me what was going on with Leo. Is everything okay?”
“He was just being a good brother. Asking Liza to help him with a girl problem was his way of getting her mind on something else.” He nodded toward the boys. “They’ve been giving her a hard time.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. Leo’s a good guy and he’s sweet. How is she doing emotionally?”
“It’s day by day, but I think it’s a little easier in some respect with the kids home from school. She has company, but then they act up, which is perfectly normal, but she has to deal with it alone. That has to be hard too.”
“She’s doing a great job with the events she’s planned and as the liaison for the winery with wedding planners and other parties.”
Jack nodded. “She’s very detail-oriented, and Kate is very supportive, helping to fill in gaps about catering too.” He caressed Peyton’s hand. “You know better than most of us how tough being a single parent can be.” He smiled her way. The lights from the dashboard highlighted his strong jawline and deep dimples. She was a goner when it came to those dimples. “You haven’t said where you’d like to go on your special date.”
Peyton laughed quietly. “Are you sorry the boys and I won the last game?”
Even though the kids were snoring softly and they couldn’t hear the conversation, he lowered his voice. “I would lose all over again to know I have the chance to have you to myself. Maybe we could try that new Greek place on the lake.”
She continued to look at him. “Before we make definite plans, the boys said something tonight that made me wonder.”
“What’s that?”
“I’m not sure your mother is happy we’re dating.”
His brow shot up. “What? That’s crazy—Mom loves you. She always has.”
“They said that Liza and your mom talk about us. A lot.”
“Did they spill any details?”
She shook her head. “No.”
“Now, don’t start worrying. My entire family loves you.” He slowed the truck as he turned into Liza’s driveway. “They can see how happy I am.” He parked the truck but left it running.
“I just don’t want them to think I’m going to cause you any problems.” She looked toward the house. All the lights were blazing, welcoming them.
“Now I’m confused. What kind of problems?”
She
let out a deep sigh. Before she could answer, the boys began to stir. The lack of motion must have woken them. “We can talk about it later.”
He wouldn’t let go of her hand. She looked into his eyes as he said, “Yes, we should talk about it when we’re alone.”
The back door opened and Liza appeared in the doorway and waved.
“We’d better get the kids inside.” Peyton pulled her hand from his and pushed open her door.
Jack made short work of unbuckling the boys. Johnny held Peyton’s hand as the three boys stumbled toward the house. He put both car seats in Liza’s van before following them inside, where the boys were giving Liza and Leo the blow-by-blow of the night.
“Sounds like you guys had a lot of fun. What do you say to Uncle Jack and Peyton?”
“Thank you, Uncle Jack. Thank you, Peyton.” Johnny and George rushed forward and wrapped their arms around her midsection, squeezing for all they were worth. Then they did the same to Jack.
“Mommy,” George said, “can Owen have a sleepover with us tonight?”
Peyton said, “Oh, boys, we can do it another time. I’m sure your mommy would like us to plan in advance.”
Liza’s head snapped up. “Actually, that’s a great idea.”
The boys took off up the stairs toward the bedrooms before Peyton could agree or disagree. Owen came racing back and gave her a hard and fast hug. “Bye, Mom!”
She managed to briefly kiss his head before he took off. “Owen, make sure you listen to Liza.”
A muffled “I will!” was all she heard.
She looked at Liza. “You don’t need to keep Owen tonight—we can do it another time.”
“To be honest, it would really help me out. They haven’t been out of school long, but the boys are tired of not having anyone else to play with besides each other and they’re going to camp next week with Owen.” She leaned against the counter. “If Owen’s here, it might stop the constant bickering they’ve been doing almost daily for the last week. I’ve got clothes Owen can wear, so nothing to worry about there, either.”
Peyton could hear the weariness in her voice. “Then it’s settled. Just let me know when you want me to pick him up.”
“I have a better idea.” Liza’s face lit up. “I’m going to have an impromptu family cookout tomorrow night. You and Jack can come, along with whoever else is free, and then you can retrieve your son.” The gold flecks in her eyes showed signs of life.
“We’d love to come. Shoot me a text and let me know what to bring.” Peyton glanced at Jack. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to speak for you too.”
He took her hand. “Liza, we’ll be here at five. Is it okay if we ask Mary and Ken too?”
Peyton opened her mouth, but Jack flashed her a quick look. She closed it again. She got it. Jack was trying to fill his sister’s house with people who cared about her and the boys. She suspected this would be another first without Steve.
“The more, the merrier.” Liza grabbed a pen and paper. “I’ve got lists to make.”
Leo, who had remained quiet during the rapid-paced plans, said, “Sis, I’m free tomorrow too. I’ll pick up chips and ice.”
She gave him a playful shove. “Taking the easy way out, are you?”
“Heck yeah.” He playfully poked her in the ribs. “Thanks for letting me bend your ear tonight.”
She stood on tiptoes and kissed her brother’s cheek. “Thanks for just being you.”
Jack tugged Peyton’s hand. “We’re outta here. Leo, are you coming?”
“You go ahead. I’m going to check on the boys one last time.”
Jack said, “See you all tomorrow.” He and Peyton stepped out into the cool night air. She gave a slight shiver and he slipped his arm around her waist and held her close. “Now, before I take you home, we’re going to talk about those issues you mentioned.”
She glanced at him and then looked toward the truck. “It’s nothing. Really.”
“I saw the look on your face, and it’s important to talk about anything that might be bothering you. So, we’ll have a glass of wine and chat?”
Peyton leaned her body into his. “That sounds nice.”
24
On the drive from Liza’s into town, Jack had been unusually quiet. “Penny for your thoughts?” Peyton said as Jack pulled into a parking place on South Street in front of Sawyers.
“They’re not worth that much.” He was thinking how to tell Peyton about Corine. He hadn’t heard from her in a while, so he was sure by now she had taken the hint that he wasn’t interested in rehashing old times, but he still needed to be honest with Peyton.
“Is this okay? I thought it might be nice to relax and have a drink.” He peered through the windshield and up at the sky. A few stars were starting to peek out. “It’s cleared up, so we should be able to sit outside on the patio.” He reached behind his seat and pulled out a fleece. “I grabbed this for you too.”
Peyton laughed. “You just happen to be driving around with a fleece in my size?”
“Not just any fleece.” He unfolded it and held it up. “Your purple CLW fleece. I grabbed it from behind the bar and I’ll return it in the morning.”
Her head tipped to one side. “You do think of everything.”
“I try.” He paused, leaned across the center console, and wrapped his arm around her. He murmured, “Now, this is what I’ve been thinking about doing all night.” He lowered his mouth to hers, drinking in her sweet, subtle scent that was oh, so Peyton. His lips followed the curve of her jaw and nuzzled behind her ear. She giggled like a schoolgirl as he reclaimed her lips. Jack could stay like this, just kissing her breathless all night.
She eased back. “I thought you were buying me a drink.”
His brain woke up. They had to talk about whatever she thought were their issues. The only issue he had was that he couldn’t be with her as much as he wanted. He pecked her lips. “Let’s go inside.” His hand slid down her arm and he kissed her hand. He pushed open his door. “Ready?”
She picked up her shoulder bag from the floor and looped the jacket through the handles. “Yup.” They strolled down the sidewalk.
“I used to come in and sit at the bar when you were hostessing, just so I could see you.”
“You did not.” She gave him a playful punch on the arm. “If I remember correctly, you had just moved into your apartment and said you weren’t going to cook after working a long day.” She looped her arm through his. “You’d sit at one end of the bar and order a cheeseburger, almost mooing, a large tossed salad with blue cheese dressing, and the beer of the day.”
His brow shot up. “You remember my order?”
Peyton laughed softly. “There are many things about you I will never forget.”
He was stunned that she recalled such an insignificant detail.
Jack opened the door and told the host they were going to the bar. A short, thin man was behind the bar. He was wiping the highly polished oak top. Alan Waters, the owner and an old family friend, called out a greeting from behind the bar. “Jack, Peyton, long time no see.” He placed two napkins on the bar in front of a couple of empty stools. “What can I get for you?”
Jack looked at Peyton. “What would you like?”
“A glass of Pinot Noir?”
“Al, how about CLW’s Pinot from last year, if you have any open.”
Alan turned and said over his shoulder, “Sorry, I don’t. Want the Sand Creek Pinot?” He held up an open bottle.
Jack nodded and picked up their glasses. “Is it okay if we go out back?”
“Of course. Switch on the firepit too, or I can come out and do it for you.”
Peyton smiled. “I can take care of that; it hasn’t been that long since I worked here.”
Alan wiped his hands on the bar towel. “If you ever want to come back, Peyton, just say the word. I’ve always got a hostess job for you.”
“Thanks Al, but I’m pretty busy at the winery. Now that Kate’s opened the bist
ro, the tasting room has us more hectic than ever.”
Jack felt himself beam with pride. “Peyton’s being modest. This girl could sell wine to a teetotaler.”
Alan nodded. “I can believe that.” He pointed to the side door. “You guys enjoy.”
Jack and Peyton closed the door behind them and shut out the busy restaurant noise. They had the patio to themselves. She uncovered the gas firepit and he dragged over an Adirondack chair built for two and a matching table from under the overhang. He moved the glasses and bottle to the table.
The fire softly whooshed to life and she sat down next to Jack, taking the glass from his outstretched hand. His fingers lingered on hers. “Do you need your fleece?”
“No. I’m warm enough.”
He enjoyed watching as she slowly swirled the deep ruby red wine in the glass. The little spot between her eyebrows wrinkled in concentration. She was savoring the aroma of the wine before taking her first taste. She pursed her lush kissable lips and sipped.
“How is it?”
“Smooth. It has notes of cherry and I want to say…raspberries.” She took another taste, savoring the liquid. “Max does blend a good wine; this is delicious.”
Jack held the glass to his nose. She was right: cherry and berries.
“I’m glad Tessa bought the winery and it’s back on track, to say nothing of the fact she and Max fell in love and are now living happily ever after.” She took a sip and watched the flames dance.
“We didn’t come here to talk about my sister, her husband, and their company.” Jack laced his fingers with hers. “Before we talk about what’s on your mind, I wanted to tell you about Corine. When I was in California, I was in a relationship for about six months. It wasn’t serious, but she’s called a couple of times. I wanted you to know it meant nothing then or now.”
“Jack, we all have a past.” She toyed with her glass. She turned in the chair so she could see his face. “Thank you for telling me, but I do have something else to talk about.”
He sat up, set his glass aside, and eased sideways in the chair.
