Chelsie smiled warmly. "I would like that. Good night." She clicked off his lamp and watched as he turned over, already dozing off into a peaceful sleep.
When she headed back into the living room, Chelsie noticed Noah was still sitting on the couch where she'd left him.
"You made a big impression on him today," Noah said. His eyes never left her as she returned to her place on the couch.
Chelsie sat down and pulled a pillow into her lap. "You have a special little boy, Noah. I mean that.”
Samuel Hayes was a smart, funny, and compassionate kid. He hadn't been traumatized by his father's travels or lack of a maternal figure like Chelsie had feared. Noah was doing a good job.
Noah propped his feet up onto the black, leather ottoman and inched closer to her. "I worry about him."
Chelsie held her breath, waiting for him to continue. Was Noah finally going to share some insight into his mysterious past?
"I wonder if I'm doing the right thing, you know?" he continued. "Raising him as a single parent – a parent who is gone all the time. I mean, I've sabotaged numerous relationships because I'm afraid of someone getting too close to Sam. But seeing you with him today…" Noah trailed off, looking up and catching her gaze. "Seeing you with him makes me wonder if Sam really does need a woman in his life.”
Chelsie could sense the conflict coming from Noah. She reached over and gave his knee a reassuring squeeze. "Look, I'm no life expert… as I'm sure you're well aware," she said. "But I can tell you this: you're his father. You know what's best for him. If something told you to break off those other relationships, then there was a reason for that. Trust your instincts because your instincts have served you well. He's an amazing little boy."
Something changed in Noah's expression. A wall had come down. He was staring at her with such intensity, Chelsie felt vulnerable beneath his gaze. Did she say too much? She was about to pull away from him when his own hand came down on hers, sending an odd charge between them. Chelsie stilled as his thumb ran along the top of her hand.
"Thanks," he said. “I needed to hear that."
Chelsie swallowed and pulled her hand out from under his grasp. "Y – Yeah, of course. That's what friends are for," she stammered. Chelsie massaged her hand to cease the strange tingling. "Hey, I should probably get going. It's getting late." She pulled out her phone to search for an Uber.
"Hey,” Noah said, standing up. Chelsie looked up, almost afraid of what he might say. "Thank you.” He tucked his hands into his khaki pockets and began rocking on the balls of his feet. It was clear Noah Hayes didn't make a habit of being the sentimental type. "I know I said that already, but it meant a lot… what you said. I don't have many people to talk to about this stuff, so it's nice to have someone who will lend an ear."
Chelsie was happy to see her words had made an impact on Noah. "Maybe we can do it again sometime."
"I'd like that."
An hour later, Chelsie was back at her apartment with a fat cat in her lap. Misty purred when Chelsie ran her fingers through her soft, grey fur. Her cell phone buzzed as she was about to climb into bed. Chelsie was expecting to see a ‘good night’ text from Devon, but she was surprised when Noah's name lit up the screen. She clicked open the text message and couldn't help but smile: "Citizen Kane still sucks."
8 Chapter Eight
Chelsie woke to the sensation of a strong arm around her waist and a warm body pressed up against her back. She absorbed the rhythmic motions of his chest. She rolled over and let her eyes settle on the handsome face of Devon Sawyer. Her boyfriend. Even though months had gone by, it still took getting used to. Chelsie pushed aside a strand of hair that had fallen over his forehead and pressed a kiss to his lips. Devon stirred, but did not wake. Chelsie increased her efforts by running her hand down his bare chest and into his boxers. She grinned when Devon's eyes fluttered open.
Devon shuddered and pulled her close. “Mornin', sunshine,” he said. His voice was gruff with sleep.
"Morning," Chelsie replied.
Devon broke apart from her and gave her buttocks a playful pat. "So, what were your plans for the day?" He sat up and threw his legs over the side of the bed.
"I thought we were doing them.” She jutted out her lip with a pout. Chelsie had been looking forward to an early morning roll in the hay.
Making love with Devon was nothing like the caustic sex she’d experienced with Ian. Devon was patient and kind. He never left her feeling empty or used. Their first time together had felt like it was straight out of a romance novel. Chelsie had been full of nerves and insecurities, but Devon went above and beyond to make her feel comfortable.
Devon offered an apologetic smile as he pulled a shirt over his head. "Sorry, babe. I have a meeting in an hour. Lots to do before our flight. What are you up to today?”
Chelsie sighed. The boys were flying across country to play a gig in Los Angeles. She had been taking too much time off work, so she was staying behind. "Well, I told Noah I'd meet him and Sam for ice cream later before you guys leave. Then I was going to go shopping with Lisa."
"Ah, I see." He paused for a moment. "I, uh... noticed you've been spending a lot of time together."
"With Lisa?" Chelsie crinkled her nose.
Devon scratched his head and stood up to look for his pants. "No, with Noah. You guys hated each other and now you're going on ice cream dates."
Chelsie frowned at the accusatory comment. "It's not like that, Devon. It's more for Sam's sake. He's really taken a liking to me."
Devon bristled as he tightened his belt buckle. "He's not the only one it seems.”
"What?"
"Nothing… nothing.” Devon rummaged through a pile of clothes, settling on a previously worn pair of socks. His stance softened as he regarded her. “Sorry, Chelsie. I'm glad you two are finally getting along."
Chelsie didn't reply. She did enjoy spending time with Noah – he was a good listener, he was funny, and he seemed to really 'get' her. She looked forward to their talks. And Sam was such a joy to be around. But her relationship with Noah was strictly platonic, so Chelsie was surprised to hear suspicion in Devon’s tone. She decided to change the subject. "You'll be back in time for my birthday on Saturday, right?"
"Of course, babe. I'm looking forward to it." Devon must have noticed her sullen tone of voice because a renewed twinkle danced in his eyes. He climbed onto the bed and army crawled over to her, pressing his mouth against hers. “On second thought… maybe I have a few extra minutes to spare.”
Chelsie giggled and kissed him back with fervor, then began removing the clothes he had just changed into. When they were finished, Devon gave her a wink and kissed her nose. “I’m going to shower and get going.” He flashed her a grin and disappeared from her bedroom.
Chelsie took a moment to revel in the afterglow before rolling out of bed and slipping into sweatpants and a baggy t-shirt. As the shower jets turned on from the hall bath, her mind wandered to the upcoming weekend. She couldn’t believe her twenty-seventh birthday was around the corner. Chelsie had never looked forward to her birthdays in the past, but this year was different. She had Devon to thank for that.
She had a reason to celebrate this year.
***
"I want chocolate. No, Superman. No… Superman with chocolate sprinkles!"
Standing in line for an ice cream cone with a four-year-old was everything one would expect it to be. Noah held his son back from charging through the other customers and throwing himself head-first into the tubs of frozen delights.
"Hey! Sorry I'm late."
Noah's head perked up at the sound of a familiar voice.
"Miss Chelsie!"
Sam ran into Chelsie's outstretched arms and wrapped his tiny legs around her waist. Chelsie managed to maintain her balance as Sam clung to her like a monkey.
"Only you could pry him away from Superman," Noah grinned. He was also excited to see her, but he was not quite as obvious about it. Sam didn't realize how
lucky he was – everything he did was socially acceptable.
"Yeah, well, I'm sure it was a tough decision." Chelsie carried Sam back to the never-ending line of ice cream patrons.
"I don't know.” Noah hooked his thumbs into his belt loops. "I think I've taught him well. Pretty blondes always win over ice cream." He reveled in the way a rosy blush crept up her neck and into her cheeks.
Chelsie slapped him on the arm and refused to look him in the eye. “Don't be a pig.”
Noah smiled as he studied her. His eyes traveled down the length of her and settled on her denim shorts. They were short enough to make him grateful he'd fathered a son. After they finally placed their orders, the three of them sat down at a nearby table with their midday desserts. Noah wiped Sam's face as ice cream dribbled down his sticky chin.
"So, I actually wanted to discuss something with you," Chelsie said. She placed her arms on the glass table and clasped her hands together.
Noah's interest peeked as he swallowed back a bite of mint chocolate chip. “Shoot.”
"Okay, I don't want to step on anyone's toes… well, Rosa’s toes. I mean, you can certainly say no, and I would totally understand. But… you see, I was wondering if you'd let me watch Sam sometimes when you and the band travel for your shows. Or… for any reason, really."
Noah could tell she was nervous as she stumbled over her words and refrained from eye contact. "Of course. Just tell me when."
Chelsie opened her mouth to speak. She faltered, as if she hadn’t heard him correctly. "Really?"
"Yeah, sure," Noah shrugged. "Why do you look so surprised? You're great with Sam and he adores you. I think it's a good idea.”
“Oh.” Chelsie relaxed and let out the breath she was holding. "Thanks, Noah. Are you sure Rosa won't mind?"
“Rosa needs a break,” Noah smiled. “I work that poor woman to the bone. I'm sure she'd be thrilled to have some nights off."
Chelsie nodded with a thoughtful expression. "I always wanted younger siblings when I was growing up," she explained. "When that didn't happen, I yearned to be a teacher or a counselor. And when… well, when my life fell apart, that dream fell apart with it. So, now I'm just a waitress dating a musician." Chelsie shrugged her shoulders, making light of her life choices. "But spending time with Sam has sort of rekindled that passion. It feels good to make a difference, even if it's a small one."
Noah wondered why she felt the need to explain herself. Noah was happy to have the help and he knew his son would be thrilled. However, he appreciated the way she cared so much.
"Hey, making a difference is no small feat. That means something." There he was, getting all mushy again. Noah didn’t know why this girl brought out such a sappy side to him.
"Thank you.” Chelsie was grinning from ear to ear. She turned her attention to Sam, who was oblivious to the conversation. He was much more concerned with how much ice cream he could fit into his mouth without getting a brain freeze. "What do you say, kiddo? Do you think I can hang out with you more often?"
Sam shot up in his seat. His eyes went wide with excitement. "Oh, yes! We'll have so much fun. Can Miss Chelsie sleep over, Daddy? Can we have a sleepover party for her birfday? She can sleep in my dinosaur sleeping bag."
Noah relished in the look on his son's face as Sam bounced in his chair. “I think Miss Chelsie has other plans this time, Sammy.” He glanced at Chelsie and watched as she sucked a bite of ice cream off her spoon. “You excited for your birthday?”
"Yep. I can’t wait.” She plunged the spoon back into her dish. "You'll be there, right?"
"Wouldn't miss it. You're practically my BFF now,” Noah winked.
Chelsie snorted under her breath. "Yeah, okay. We're twelve, I see."
"Where's the party happening, anyway? I vote Marley's – where it all began."
"You mean our loathing introduction and hostile banter?" she quipped. "I hope you know I almost punched you."
Noah chuckled and leaned back in his seat. "I was more referring to your sickeningly sweet romance with Devon, and our… well, I suppose loathing introduction sums it up. Thanks for not punching me, by the way." He offered her a smile that she instantly returned. "But I gotta say, I do miss our hostile banter. Good times."
Chelsie raised an eyebrow. "You did seem to enjoy it in an unhealthy way."
"I know. You're cute when you get all fired up." Noah watched as the blush returned to her cheeks as she pulled her bottom lip between her teeth. He wondered if he'd taken their friendly chit-chat into the dreaded 'flirting territory'.
"Daddy, look! That man wants to take our picture. Cheese!"
Sam's announcement got their attention, and both Noah and Chelsie looked around to find the intruder.
"Damn paparazzi," Noah muttered. He stood up just in time to see a man running away with a camera. "What happened to privacy and common courtesy?"
"I'm pretty sure fame and fortune happened," Chelsie said. She glanced at her cell phone and began collecting her empty bowl and napkins. "Shoot. I'm supposed to meet Lisa at the mall in fifteen minutes. I should get going."
Noah took the items from her. "I got it," he insisted. "Go enjoy your girly day of retail therapy, pedicures, and chocolate."
Chelsie let out an amused chuckle. "Is that what you think all girls do?"
"Well, yeah. And go to the bathroom in large groups."
"That’s true,” Chelsie smirked, then stepped over to Sam. She kneeled in front of him. "I have to go now, but maybe I can come see you tomorrow after your Daddy leaves. Would that be okay?"
Sam jumped in her arms with another bone-crushing hug. "Yes! Thanks for having ice cream wif me."
"My pleasure." Chelsie turned to Noah and leaned in for a hug.
Noah was taken off guard by the gesture. He hesitated, then pulled her close and rested his hand on the small of her back. "Good to see you, Combs," he said into her ear. "Can't wait to buy you a birthday shot on Saturday."
Chelsie pulled back and nodded. "Looking forward to it. Have a safe trip."
With a lingering smile, she was gone. Noah carried the discarded items to the trash and wiped down the table. He reached for Sam’s hand, trying to erase the hug from his mind. “Let’s go, buddy. It’s time for a Candyland rematch.”
***
There was something special about the anticipation of meeting your best friend at the mall for retail therapy and girly gossip. Chelsie wondered if it was a feeling that would ever go away. She recalled how excited she was when her thirteen-year-old self would walk to the shopping center downtown. She remembered eagerly awaiting giddy hugs, window browsing, and Chinese cuisine from the food court with her besties, Lisa and Riley. Years later, Chelsie felt that same buzz she had when she was a preteen. She could see herself fifty years from now, parking in the handicapped spot and riding into the mall on a motorized scooter. The gossip may change from love and sex to dentures and Depends, but by God, that Chinese food would still taste just as good.
A shock of bouncing, scarlet curls came into view and Chelsie couldn't resist the squeal that escaped her lips when she spotted Lisa. The thirteen-year-old in her came out and Chelsie skipped through the mall and threw her arms around her friend. "Oh, Lis, it's so good to see you!"
"Uh, yeah... I can tell. Gosh, Chelsie, it's as if we didn't see each other a week ago," Lisa laughed. She returned the hug with a tight squeeze.
"I know. Can't a girl just be excited to shop, talk, and stuff her face with highly caloric meat by-product?"
Lisa chuckled, adjusting her purse strap over her shoulder. "You're right. What's a better excuse for calories than a shopping date with your bestie?"
The two girls glided through the mall, barely noticing the window displays as they chatted.
"I'm so happy for you, Chelsie," Lisa said. "I knew your guy was out there. Devon is amazing. You're very lucky."
Chelsie couldn't contain her glowing grin. "I know. Things finally seem to be going my way. And did I tell you about
Noah?" she continued. "We've become such good friends. It's crazy. Who would have thought?"
Lisa's smile waned. "I'm glad you two are on better terms, but be careful, Chels. I don't trust him as much as you do."
Chelsie didn’t let the warning bring her down. She understood Lisa's concerns. Chelsie had a lot of toxic people in her past – Ian, Brad, Riley, and everyone else who went along with that social circle. Lisa was no stranger to them. Noah had not made the best first impression. But Lisa didn't know him the way Chelsie did. She didn't see the other side of him he was too proud to share with most people. Lisa didn't see how nurturing he was with his son, or the way he smiled when something made him genuinely happy. It was different from his usual smile – the one that came around when he was signing autographs or giving interviews. No… this smile was different.
Chelsie frowned and shook the thoughts away. “Noah is a good guy, Lisa," she said. "Once you get to know him better, you'll understand. Besides, spending time with Noah means spending time with Sam. That little guy has been a huge highlight in my life.”
"I concur. I'll give Noah credit in that department… he must be doing something right," Lisa acknowledged.
Chelsie was about to respond when something in an approaching store window caught her eye. She strolled up to the display. It felt like she was being pulled by an invisible force.
"What is it?" Lisa wondered, trailing Chelsie's heels.
Chelsie's eyes rested on a gold watch with a striking, emerald green face. "This one," she said, pointing at the watch.
"The green one?" Lisa pursed her lips together. "It's nice, I guess. What's so special about it?"
"I don't know. I think it just reminds me of him." Chelsie raised her hand to the glass, entranced. "It reminds me of his eyes."
There was a pause before Lisa replied. "Chelsie… Devon has blue eyes."
When the words sunk in, Chelsie pulled her hand back as if it had touched a flame. She stepped back from the window and looked down at her strappy, brown sandals. "Yeah, I know," she muttered. She clutched her purse and popped her head back up. "Never mind. Let's go get a Frappuccino."
Aria (Duet Series Book 1) Page 9
