Ben & Matilda- Infinite Promise

by Tania De Melo

  “I’ll try not to show you up.”

  He lets out a laugh. “Well, I don’t want to hold you back, but at least try and let the rest of us save a little face.”

  I give him a wink. “I’ll do my best.

  “Well, I should let you get going. I’m glad to have you onboard, Ati. I just know this is going to mean great things...for both of us.” He offers a wink in return, then walks off.

  What did he mean by, great things for both of us? Surely, he meant professionally...right? Ugh, of course he did, get over yourself, Ati. That man probably has his pick of the litter, women throwing themselves at him. It’s highly unlikely he’s looking for anything more than a professional relationship from you.

  ***

  It’s just after nine in the morning, and I’m beat. After a twelve-hour shift than an exhausting drive home due to morning traffic, all I want right now is a long hot shower and my bed. Great idea, but not one likely to happen. Not when as soon as I walk through the door, I am hit with utter pandemonium.

  “Ethan, that’s mine. Give it back,” Thomas yells from across the island to his brother.

  “Make me.”

  Thomas charges toward his brother, and Ethan cuts quickly in the opposite direction to avoid a takedown.

  “What is going on here?” I ask, but neither of the boys stops to answer.

  “You’re going to break it, just like you broke yours,” Thomas shouts.

  My head bounces from side to side as the boys yell back and forth and run around the center island. Just as I’m about to step in the middle, a booming voice sounds out from behind me. “Enough!”

  The yelling stops and the boys come to a halt, instantly tensing up. I even feel a shiver come over me at the tone. When I turn to look behind me, Ben is standing there, arms crossed over his chest with a not so pleased look displayed across his face.

  He looks kind of hot—Jeez, Ati, get your hormones under control.

  The boys look up to their uncle but neither speak, so Ben turns to Thomas. “Explain.”

  With a trembling voice, Thomas answers, “Ethan took my tablet without asking.”

  “Is that true,” Ben asks, turning to our other nephew. Ethan just nods his head. “What

  have you been told about taking things that don’t belong to you?”

  Ethan looks up to Ben, tears welled in his eyes. “Not to, unless I ask.”

  Ben lets out a sigh, walking over and bending down in front of Ethan. Now, eye to eye,

  his voice softens as he speaks, “There’s no need for tears, bud. No one’s mad at you, and you’re not in trouble. But you need to follow the rules, okay?”

  Ethan wipes his eyes and smiles. “Yes, sir.” He then turns to his brother. “Sorry for taking your tablet, Tommy.”

  “It’s okay, I forgive you. Maybe we can play with it together, but you have to not break it.”

  Ethan smiles. “Okay.”

  The two boys head off, and just like that, all is well in their world again.

  “Good Lord, were you and your brothers like that,” I ask.

  Ben lets out a laugh. “We were worse. Pretty sure my mother wrote the best seller on how to deal with unruly boys.”

  “Hmm, so that’s what keeps her in all those fancy clothes,” I reply with a chuckle, then take in a breath and look to Ben. “So, I would have thought you would be gone for the day by now.”

  Ben nods. “I was actually looking for Gwen; have you seen her?”

  I shake my head, then remember. “Isaac gets up early, so he was probably due for his nap.”

  “Oh, I was hoping I could catch her before I headed to out.”

  “I can go grab her if you like,” I offer.

  “Nah, I’ll send her a text. I just wanted to let her know that there would be an extra body for brunch on Sunday.”

  I catch my gasp before it makes its way out, and I clear my throat. “Extra body?”

  “Yeah. Alex. She’s kind of new to town in a sense, and I thought maybe letting her get to know all of you would be good...well, that, and maybe give me some extra good boy points.”

  You have got to be kidding me.

  I let out a forced laugh. “So, I take it things went well on your date?”

  Ben nods. “They did. We’ve been chatting a lot since then. It’s surprising, we actually have a lot in common, and it’s a bonus that she’s so easy to talk to.”

  Frickin’ great. Not. “That’s awesome.”

  We stand there for mere seconds before we hear a clatter on the other side of the island. Ben walks over but says nothing, just gestures for me to come over. When I round the counter, I catch sight of the cutest thing I’ve ever seen—Sammy, can opener in hand, trying to pry open a can of beans.

  “I almost want to stand here and see if he can actually get it open,” Ben says quietly.

  I let out a soft snicker. “I have no doubt he could. There isn’t an obstacle that kid can’t overcome when it comes to his appetite.”

  “I hear you. It’s crazy. I’ve never seen such a little person pack away so much food.”

  Chuckling, I turn to Ben. “I think he comes by it naturally. I’ve personally seen his father and uncles devour a whole feast in one sitting, only leaving scraps for all us less quick on the draw.”

  Ben laughs. “Touché!”

  Sammy finally spots us as our laughs come out louder. He stands and walks over to Ben, handing him the can of beans and opener. Ben bends over, taking them in one hand, then lifting

  Sammy into his other arm. “I don’t think so, kid.”

  Sammy lets out a huff, then turns to me with a pout. “Oh, no. You already got me in trouble with that pout of yours.” I reach out my arms. “Come with Aunt Ati. Let’s go see mommy and ask if you can have a snack.”

  Sammy stretches out to me, and Ben puts him in my arms.

  “Yeah, I should probably head out,” Ben says.

  “And I should get some shut-eye.”

  Ben looks down my body, then his eyes open wide. “Shit, I almost forgot. You started at the hospital today...well, yesterday. How was it?”

  I smile. “I don’t know how to explain it other than to say it was awesome. But I shouldn’t keep you any longer. You need to get going, and I really do need to sleep.”

  “Okay, but when we actually do get a minute, I want to hear all about it,” he says.

  I nod. “Absolutely!”

  Ben leans over, giving Sammy a kiss on the cheek, and for a moment, I swear I think he almost leaned in to give me one as well, but he just offered an awkward nod and made his way out.

  Letting out a sigh, I look down at Sammy. “At least I know you’ll love me forever.”

  Sammy lays his little mouth to my cheek in a kiss and whispers. “Yep.” Then he lays his head on my shoulder. And just like that, all is right in my world again…at least for the moment.

  Chapter Eight

  -Ben-

  I had to get out of there. Being that close to Ati was not going to end well. Watching her stand there with Sammy in her arms—she was beautiful. Something came over me, and I wanted her. Dammit—I almost kissed her.

  As I pull onto the worksite, my phone sounds with a text message. I park my car by the trailer, pull out my phone, and when I look to the screen, I see it’s from Ati. I open it up, and I can’t help but let out a roar of laughter. The message reads, ‘I told you he would find a way,’ and below it, is a pic of Sammy sporting a wide grin giving a thumbs up with a large bowl of beans in front of him. The only thing missing would have been her beautiful smile right beside his. What am I doing? I have to quit this obsession I have for her. But I can’t get Ati out of my head. She’s always there, and I’m starting to think what Grace said about being honest with her is true. On the other hand, I’m seeing Alex now, and she’s great. Do I really want to give up a chance at a good thing for something or someone I’m not even sure feels the same? No, I can’t. I’ve been alone for too long, pushing away women becau
se I wasn’t able to feel for them what I knew I should. With Alex, it may be possible to feel again—Just maybe.

  When I walk into the trailer, my father is there waiting. “Hey, I didn’t know you were here. Where’s your truck?”

  “Your mother dropped me off. She had some shopping to do, but her SUV’s getting the brakes done. I didn’t want to sit at home all day, so, here I am,” he replies.

  I smirk. “Does this mean I get to put you to work?”

  “You know the rule; there’s no sitting around on site.”

  I let out a laugh. “Oh, I remember. I just wasn't sure if I could turn it back around on you.

  “Absolutely. You’re the boss now. Just tell me where you need me to be.”

  I nod. “Well then, since you insist. Jace is out for a couple of days. I could use a lead hand over on the Grover Hills site.”

  My father stands. “I’m your man. I’m going to grab one of the trucks and head over.”

  “Take the black dually. It just came back from service,” I advise. He starts to walk out. “Hey, Dad.”

  “Yeah?”

  “Thank you.”

  My dad gives me a slight smile. “Like I said, anytime, son.”

  He steps out, and I head over to my table. I don’t know how he knew Jace was out and that I would be short-handed, but he did, and that’s really why he’s here.

  Before the door shuts completely, he pops his head back in. “Ben, by the way. Your mother sent Jace and his wife a basket from you congratulating them on the baby.”

  Of course. That’s how he knows...my mother.

  “I’ll be sure to thank her.” He gives me another nod, shutting the door behind him, and I get started with my day. Hopefully, work will provide the distraction I need to get the thoughts of Ati out of my head.

  ***

  Nope, work did absolutely nothing to help provide a distraction. So, as bad as this may sound, I called the one person who would.

  “I’m glad you got a hold of me. My parents headed out early on their trip, so I was trying to find something to occupy my time,” Alex admits innocently, her lips curving perfectly around the words—yes, this is exactly the distraction I need. This might work.

  “I’m happy to oblige. Work finished up early, and I was hoping that you would be free,” I reply. Ugh, why did that feel rehearsed? I let out a small breath and give her a smile. Probably, because, even though when I look at her, I like what I see, I still have to concentrate on the conversation just so my mind does not wander.

  “So, how are things coming with my parent’s house? You haven’t called with any questions, so I’m assuming it’s all been going well.”

  I nod. “Really well, actually. Just finished up with the second to last phase, and I’ve placed the order for the flooring and cabinets your mother chose.”

  “I can’t believe how quickly it’s moving,” she comments.

  “Yeah, once everything is in line and providing it stays that way, we can usually have a build done in a matter of months.” There’s a pause in the conversation, and I can tell Alex is thinking about something. “What’s on your mind?”

  She looks to me with a sweet smile. “Nothing really. It’s kind of stupid, but I have been thinking about it.”

  “Well, out with it,” I encourage with a chuckle.

  “Well, this brunch on Sunday; are you sure I won’t be imposing? I mean, it’s a family thing, and we’ve just started seeing each other.”

  I nod in understanding. I actually thought the same thing, but everyone knows we’re talking, and my family is very welcoming. “You’re not imposing, trust me. My family will love to have you there.”

  “And Ati? Will she be there?”

  Ah, and there it is. I let out a breath. “The brunch is at Liam and Gwen’s, and Ati is Gwen’s sister, so, yeah, she’ll be there.”

  “Won’t that be weird for you?”

  I shake my head then take a sip of my drink to stall a moment before giving my response. When I speak about Ati to Alex, I find it hard to hide the emotion in my voice. “No. Like I mentioned before, Ati and I have been over for a long time. We’re friends, does that bother you?”

  “No, not at all. Look, I’m not a jealous person, so don’t think that’s what this is. I just like to know where I stand.”

  I didn’t think it was jealousy, but there’s something in her tone. Something that tells me she’s been hurt before, and she is not about to quickly let her guard down without knowing she’s safe.

  “Can I be honest with you?” I ask.

  She nods. “I would appreciate that.”

  “Okay.” I let out a held breath, knowing that I can’t go on like this. “Look, did Ati and I have something before? Yes. Were we in love? Yes. Have I been confused lately as to what my feelings for her are now? Yes. I won’t lie. I’ve been trying to figure it all out. But it doesn’t change the fact that Ati and I are in the past, and we are both moving on with our lives.”

  I can see her processing what I’ve said. Playing it over in her mind. Could it be a lot for her to take at this point; sure. But I had to let her know.

  “Ben, thank you for telling me. Now, it’s my turn to be honest with you. I was in a one-sided relationship for a few years before I moved back home with my parents. I tried. Gave it all my attention, to the point I lost who I was, in hopes that he would feel for me just a mere piece of what I felt for him. But he never did. I don’t want to put myself in that position ever again. I deserve to be loved in return when I give myself to someone. I know this is new, and I don’t expect you to tell me you love me. But I do need to be somewhat reassured that if it ever comes to me giving in to it, you would be right there with me, and I won’t be fighting against a past love you can’t get over.”

  I can’t deny her that...she’s right. “That’s fair, Alex.”

  “But?”

  “No but’s. I want to see where this could go. I like you, and I think we get along well.”

  She smiles. “You do, however, need to figure out your feelings for Ati, Ben.”

  “I know. But I don’t want to put what we have on hold until I do—I’m sorry, I know that’s selfish of me.”

  “You’re not being selfish. We’re being honest, remember. How about this? We continue on with talking and meeting up for drinks and lunches...as friends. We get to know each other with no expectations one way or another. When you’ve figured it all out, we can talk about something more,” Alex suggests.

  “Friends?”

  She nods. “Ben, I think it’s where you need to be right now. And honestly, maybe I do too.”

  “Maybe you’re right.”

  “You know I am.”

  I smile. “Okay, but you’re still coming to Sunday brunch. You mentioned you don’t really have any friends in town, and I know the girls would love to get to know you.”

  “Then count me in!”

  ***

  After finishing up drinks with Alex, it was still early, so I decided to pop over to Bane and Thea’s. I didn’t get to really spend time with the new baby at the party because the women kept him to themselves, and I really want to see him again.

  “Knock, knock,” I say as I pop my head in through the side door.

  Bane peeks his head around the corner. “Hey, man, come in.”

  “I got off work early, and I was hoping to see the baby.”

  He pats my shoulder. “You don't need a reason to come by, Ben. Can I offer you a beer?”

  “Yeah, I’ll take one. So, where’s my new nephew?”

  Pulling a cold one from the fridge, Bane hands over the bottle then leans up against the kitchen counter. “Upstairs with your sister. We just got back from a doctor’s appointment, so she’s just changing him.”

  “Is he okay?”

  “Yeah, he was having some loose stool, and Thea was worried he may have caught a bug, so she wanted to get him checked out. There was no bug, we just need to change his formula,” he explains. />
  I let out a chuckle. “To think this time last year, we were talking about work and house renos. Now, we’re discussing your son’s bowel movements.”

  “I’m a dad now. It’s all about feedings, diaper changes, and nap time,” he grins proudly.

  “Does that mean you’re ready to give up that GT 500 you’ve been trying to restore for years now?”

  Bane shoots me an almost deadly glare. “Hell no. I have a son now. A few more years and he and I will be out there working on it so he can take his girlfriend out in style one day.”

  I let out a laugh, as Thea walks through the kitchen doorway, baby in her arms.

  “How about we get him through life’s milestones first, like potty training, before we let him drive off with the girl that may steal him away from me.” Thea walks over, giving me a hug, and I take Asher from her.

  “Is it safe,” I ask.

  She waves me off. “Yep. All hazardous material has been cleaned up and disposed of. You’re safe.”

  I cradle him in my arms and look down to his little round face. “Hey, buddy. I’m your Uncle Ben.” Hearing my voice, he looks up to me like he’s searching. “Stick with me, bud. Uncle Benny will teach you how to pick up all the cuties on the playground.”

  “Ben, don’t get the boys hopes up,” my sister says with a snicker.

  I look up to her. “What are you even getting at? I have game.”

  Bane shakes his head. “Man, the fact that you’re calling it game says everything.”

  “Oh, okay. Like you know better.”

  He smiles and brings my sister into his side. “Have you met my wife. My much younger, knock out of a wife. Yeah, I would say I know better.”

  I go to open my mouth to say something, then stop. “Yeah, I won’t argue that. I’m pretty sure I was just dumped after only a date and a half.”

  “Nooo,” Thea lets out. “Alex? What happened?”

  Looking to her and Bane, I am about to answer, but Bane does it for me. “Ati.”

  I nod in confirmation.

  “Did something happen between you and Ati?” Thea asks, now curious.