What Matters Most

by Longley, Barbara

  Jo placed both her hands against his chest and pushed him hard enough that he rolled to his back. “Will, I can’t take any more. I need you inside me. Now.”

  Somehow their lovemaking had turned to vows in his mind, a claiming for all time. “Your wish is my command.” He covered, her, giving her all of his weight and pressing her into the mattress. He needed this, needed to dominate her, if only for a moment. Nudging her thighs apart, he stared deeply into her lust-hazed eyes, his jaw set. Now and forever mine.

  Entering her in a single thrust, he claimed her mouth, his tongue mimicking the way he meant to take her. Hard and fast. Jo writhed beneath him. Her hands roamed all over him, demanding and claiming him in her own right. Growling low in his throat, finally he began to move, his heart bonding irrevocably with hers. Never had sex been this intense, this all consuming. He reached down and hooked his arms under her knees, bringing them up around his waist so he could thrust deeper. His entire focus narrowed to where they were joined, where he pounded into her over and over as deeply as possible.

  Jo cried out, meeting his thrusts and pressing herself tightly against him. A shudder racked through her as she pulsed around him, sending him over the edge of control into an explosion of pleasure. He came inside her, pouring his heart and soul into the very last pulse.

  Sweating and breathing hard, he collapsed, rolling to his side and taking her with him. He brushed Jo’s hair from her damp forehead and kissed her eyelids. “So this is what happiness feels like.”

  CHAPTER FIFTEEN

  Jo reached for Will’s hand as they walked from the parking ramp toward Kincaid’s, where her brothers and their wives awaited their arrival. “All right, Will, I’ll agree to meet with your parents again, but if things don’t go well …”

  “If they utter a single insult aimed at either of us, we’ll both leave. Together.” He squeezed her hand. “They won’t though. Cutting them out of my life after our brunch set off a chain reaction. I’m not blameless when it comes to how things were between me and my parents. I should’ve made my feelings known to them years ago. Instead, I fell into the same passive-aggressive pattern of behavior they employed. Now I understand. They only wanted to be included in my life, and they didn’t know how to go about bridging the gap between us. I didn’t help matters.”

  “I’m glad the three of you are working things out.” He’d already shared with her what had transpired between the three of them after that awful Sunday brunch. On the one hand, she was glad everything happened as it had, because Will and his parents were finally talking. Really talking. On the other hand, a lot of misery could have been avoided had things gone differently.

  Will opened the door to Kincaid’s on St. Peter Street and ushered her inside. “I’m glad too,” he said.

  He placed his hand at the small of her back and guided her to the host’s stand. As always, she melted at his touch, no matter how slight. Would she always react to him this way? He’d also explained to her how her brothers had intervened after the name change vote, and his offer to buy them dinner if their plan worked. Grinning slightly, she relived their night of make-up sex. At least the shadows under her eyes tonight had to do with a long night of loving rather than day after day of heartache.

  The hostess led them through the restaurant to their table. Sam, Haley, Wyatt and Kayla were already there. Her family’s comical expressions were identical. All four scrutinized them as they approached. Jo glared at them as Will pulled out her chair. “Knock it off right now,” she commanded.

  “What do you mean?” Sam asked, an eyebrow cocked.

  “I mean … are the four of you going to look at us through a microscope all night?” She gave a mock shiver. “Creepy. I feel like we’re a couple of microbes on a glass slide.”

  “Oh. That.” Wyatt smirked. “Yes. We plan to stare at you this way all night. Don’t you know you two are our collective science fair project?” He lifted his menu. “I know this is a celebration, and you were probably planning on ordering bottles and bottles of champagne.” Wyatt glanced at Will. “But I’d rather have a beer.”

  “Me too,” Sam added, also smirking. “In case you’re wondering, Wyatt won the bet. I didn’t think you had a snowball’s chance in hell of pulling this off.”

  “Thank you for your confidence in me, Wyatt.” Will said, while scowling at Sam. “I’m touched.”

  “I’m the designated driver for Sam, Wyatt and Kayla tonight,” Haley chirped, placing her hand on her belly. “I’ll have a—”

  “Soda water with a squeeze of lime,” Jo supplied. “Right?” Haley grinned at her across the table, clearly happy she and Will were together again. Jo smiled back.

  Kayla pouted. “I’m kind of disappointed we aren’t toasting you two with champagne.”

  “Order a split,” Will told her. “Or a bottle. Jo, what do you feel like drinking tonight?”

  “I’ll share a bottle of champagne with Kayla.”

  Their server appeared then, along with an assistant who placed a basket of bread and butter at the center of the table and filled their water glasses. The waiter took their drink orders, and Will ordered a few appetizers for the table.

  “Say, Haley.” Will leaned forward once their server had departed. “I’ve been meaning to talk to you. What would it take to steal you away from Bremmer, Stevens & Schmitt? I’m planning on leasing space to a daycare provider on the first floor of my building, and we’ll also have a small convenience store and a diner on site.”

  “I’d love to join your new firm, Will. I’d have to wait though. I have my health insurance to think about, which will cover the baby once he’s born. Plus, I have paid vacation time and maternity leave built up with Bremmer, Stevens & Schmitt. We can’t give up those benefits right now. If you still want me, let’s talk again six months from now.”

  “I’ll keep a spot open, Haley, and whenever you’re ready to make the jump, just let me know.” He glanced at her across the table. “I can’t begin to tell you how nice it is not having to drive into Minneapolis every morning. Saint Paul is much easier to navigate. Don’t you live in Saint Paul?”

  “We do. Knowing our son would be right downstairs from where I work would be wonderful. I could take my breaks with him.”

  “Let’s talk about that later.” Sam reached for Haley’s hand. “Right now I want details about Friday morning. Did Will grovel, Jo? Did he drop to his knees and beg you for another chance?”

  “Not exactly.” Haley laughed. “He scolded me and started an argument.” It had been their first, actually. “We bickered ourselves back together.”

  “Who but a lawyer would think of arguing a woman back into his life.” Wyatt grunted and shook his head. “Smooth, Will.”

  Laughter erupted around the table, and Jo’s eyes stung. Only this time, the mistiness sprang from love-filled happiness. She’d worried for nothing. Will fit into her posse perfectly. Her brothers liked him a lot, or they wouldn’t tease him, and they certainly wouldn’t have helped Will come up with a plan for him to meet with her. Her sisters-in-law were also clearly happy about the way things turned out. Who would’ve thought a clogged bathroom sink would lead her to her very own happily ever after?

  Jo slid her hand to Will’s and twined her fingers with his. He glanced at her, understanding and warmth shining from his sexy gray eyes. She was his, and he was hers, and she meant to make what they had last a lifetime.

  Will surveyed his living room, which now held a cozy seating arrangement, a plush, colorful area rug, end tables and a coffee table. Even the walls were somehow welcoming. Jo had painted them some oddly named warm shade that complemented the sandstone hearth. The creamy color somehow made the bits of rose and green in the rug stand out. She’d even hung works of art on the walls, and his fireplace mantel now held tasteful knick-knacks and an antique shelf clock the two of them had found together.

  He and Jo had had also found an antique stereo console with the original turntable and speakers still intac
t and working. They’d had a blast visiting antique stores over the weekends, searching for vintage vinyl albums after sharing a leisurely breakfast out. Speaking of Jo, there she was, walking into their living room with her hands on her hips. She glanced around the room as if making sure everything was in order. They’d been together now for six months—including the miserable days they’d spent apart—and he still lost his breath at the sight of her.

  “Everything is ready.” She surveyed the room. “The quiche is out of the oven, and the scones are baking.”

  “Everything smells delicious. I wish you’d stop worrying. It’s not like this is the first time we’ve entertained my parents.”

  “Yes, but it is the first time we’re introducing your parents to my grandparents.” Her gaze darted to the clock on the mantel. “What if there’s tension?”

  “There won’t be.” He crossed the living room and drew her into his arms. “Your grandparents have mad social skills. My parents will not be able to resist their charm.

  “Still, I wish we’d invited my brothers and their families.” She glanced at him. “As reinforcements, you know?”

  “Sam and Haley have a newborn. They’re exhausted and not ready to start socializing again. Besides, I’m not sure my parents are ready for your brothers.” He kissed her forehead.

  “Good point.” She huffed out a laugh. “No one in their right mind is ready for my brothers.”

  The doorbell rang. Will gave her a quick hug and let her go. “Showtime.”

  “Yep.” Jo straightened, glanced at him, and they marched to the door together.

  He and Jo were a team, united. She had his back, and he was in her corner. He opened the door. “Mom, Dad, come in.”

  His mother held out a covered bowl. “The fruit salad.”

  “Thank you, Caroline.” Jo took the ceramic bowl.

  “Oh, the rest of the furniture is here.” His mom walked into the living room. “This is lovely, Jo. Will’s townhouse is finally beginning to look like a home.” She smiled. “Thanks to you. Look at this, Mark.” Caroline walked over to the console and slid her hand over the polished cherry wood. “I hear vinyl is making a comeback.”

  “It is. I plan to refinish the exterior, and my brother is going to help me replace the turntable and the old wiring.” Jo moved to stand beside his mother. “The turntable still works, but we decided to get a new one anyway.”

  “Put something on,” his dad said. “We’d love to hear how it sounds.”

  “All right.” Will slid the cabinet open and flipped through the albums. He chose one. “How about The Eagles?”

  “Oh, my.” Caroline laughed. “That brings me back. Perfect.”

  Will started the album. “Would either of you like coffee or something to drink?”

  “We’d both love a cup of coffee,” his mom said, following him toward the kitchen.

  “The dining room furniture hasn’t arrived yet. I hope you’re all right with eating in the kitchen,” Jo said.

  “Mmm.” His dad sniffed the air. “Smells delicious, and we’re happy to eat wherever you’re willing to feed us.”

  His doorbell rang again, and Jo cast him a nervous look. “I’ll get it,” he said, running his hands over her shoulders. “You can take care of the coffee.”

  She nodded, and he set out for the door. Jo’s grandparents had already let themselves in by the time he reached them. “Joe, Maggie, it’s really good to see you both. We’re having our brunch in the kitchen.”

  “Whatever you two made, it smells divine in here.” Maggie patted Will’s cheek. “It’s good to see you too, Will. We brought the cheesy hash browns as ordered.”

  “My mouth is already watering.” Will led them to the kitchen, although they knew the way, having visited several times with Jo’s family. Who knew he’d enjoy family gatherings as much as he did?

  Jo’s grandfather, a frequent visitor, had helped Josey with the painting, both Haneys shooing him away when he tried to participate. Fine by him. As far as he was concerned, Jo’s role as the handy one in their dynamic duo suited him just fine. In no way did he feel threatened by her many skills. Grateful yes. Emasculated? Not at all.

  “Mom, Dad,” he announced. “This is Joe and Maggie Haney, Josey’s grandparents. Maggie, Joe, this is my dad, Mark, and my mom, Caroline.” He stepped back and let Jo’s amazing grandparents work their magic. He grinned at Jo, who stood in the middle of the kitchen, twisting the life out of a dishtowel. “Let’s eat,” Will said. He joined Jo at the kitchen counter, and the two of them managed to get everyone served and settled.

  In no time at all, his parents and the Haneys were chatting happily about traveling, his townhouse, Minnesota weather and the music filtering into the kitchen from their stereo. Will leaned close and whispered into his love’s ear. “I hate to say I told you so, but … I told you so.”

  “You did,” she whispered back.

  “You can stop pleating your napkin now,” he teased. “And maybe you can relax and enjoy this amazing meal.”

  She laughed, bringing everyone’s attention to her. Will put his arm around her, and hugged her close. “I was just teasing Jo. She’s been so nervous about this brunch, she’s turned her napkin into a fan.”

  Maggie tsked. “She’s always fidgeted when nervous. We’re fine, Josey. Relax, or we’ll all feel bad.”

  “Your grandparents are delightful,” Caroline added. “You’ve prepared an amazing meal, and we’re glad to be here on this fine Sunday morning.”

  “Say, Joe,” Mark said. “My son tells me you’re a golfer.”

  “I’m not much good at it, but I do enjoy getting out on the course.” Joe took a sip of his coffee.

  “Perhaps you, Will and I could get together for a round sometime soon at our club.”

  “Which club is that?” Joe asked.

  “Edina.”

  “I’d like that. We joined Interlachen, which is close to our home.”

  That exchange launched a new conversation about golf, different country clubs and handicaps. Jo let loose a sigh beside him, and finally began to eat.

  After his parents and her grandparents left, and he and Jo were cleaning up, Will screwed up his courage, working up to what had been on his mind for weeks. “That went well, wouldn’t you agree?”

  “Yep.” Jo scraped her grandmother’s leftover hash browns into a plastic container, put the lid on and shoved the dish into the fridge.

  “Jo, I’ve been thinking.”

  She handed him the casserole dish from the hash browns to load into the dishwasher. “Yeah?”

  “We get along well, don’t we?”

  She cast him what-is-up-with-you look and arched a brow. “We do. We’re crazy in love, remember?” She smirked.

  Another side to Jo he loved. The teasing. “Yes.” He swept her into his arms. “We are crazy in love. So, how about you move in with me? You can rent out your condo … in case you’re afraid we—”

  “Yes.” She threw her arms around his neck and started kissing his face all over. “Next weekend. I’ll get Wyatt to help, and maybe a cousin or two.”

  Will’s heart swelled, and he kissed her. “We can hire movers, Jo. I don’t want to ask for anyone’s precious time off to move you. We’ll invite everyone over for dinner once you’re all settled in.”

  “All right. I guess we can afford that.”

  “I guess we can.” He cupped her sexy, round bottom and drew her tight against his growing erection. “Prescott, Fletcher & Associates is doing really well for a startup venture, and you’re always in demand for plumbing jobs. No worries.” They’d never have worries when it came to finances. He’d see to it. Now that he could look forward to having a family of his own, taking care of Jo and however many children they might have took the top spot on his list of priorities.

  “It’s settled. We’ll hire movers.” Jo returned the favor and cupped his bottom. “Let’s head upstairs.”

  Her phone rang and vibrated on the count
er. She backed out of his arms and picked it up. “It’s Wyatt.” She hit accept. “Hey, Wyatt. What’s up?”

  Will loved the way Jo’s face lit up when she was happy. He folded his arms, leaned against the counter and waited.

  “No kidding. That’s wonderful news. Congratulations to you both. You’re already great with Brady. You’ve got this daddy thing down.” Jo raised her brow at him, held out her hand and waggled her fingers.

  Groaning, Will reached for his wallet and pulled out a twenty-dollar bill. He slapped it into her palm.

  “I have news too,” Jo said, tucking the money into her back pocket. “I’m moving in with Will.” She cast him a smoldering look and ran her fingers down his chest.

  “Get off the phone,” he mouthed.

  “Yes, our brunch with the Prescotts and the grandparents went really well. Gramps has already made plans to play golf with Will’s dad.” Jo winked at him before giving him her back and moving away.

  “Oh, no you don’t.” Will came up behind her, circled her waist and drew her back against his chest. Leaning over her shoulder, he spoke next to her phone, “Jo has to go now, Wyatt. She has important things to do. Congratulations, and we’ll talk later.”

  Wyatt’s answering laughter came through loud and clear from the other end. Will took her phone and hit “End Call.”

  “Hey,” Jo flashed him a disgruntled look. “I wanted to make plans to celebrate with them.”

  “Later. We have our own celebrating to do.”

  “Yeah?”

  “Most definitely.”

  “It’s my turn to be in charge, Will.”

  “Fine by me. I love it when you’re in charge.”

  “I like that we take turns.”

  Jo took him by the hand and tugged him toward the stairs toward the bedroom, the bedroom that had once been his, but now was theirs. The room attached to the his-and-hers bathroom for the both of them. Soon, they’d begin working on filling the two empty bedrooms.