I slowly shake my head, holding her gaze. “I guess that’s the litmus test. If we want them to meet everyone.”
“Especially Grams,” Hannah smiles. “I know I was shaking when I brought Tobias over. He can be hulkish sometimes, but she loved him. It felt so good to get her approval.”
We go quiet, staring at each other. “Yep. That’s what we all want, I guess.”
“Poor Andy,” Hannah sighs.
As we walk through the parking lot for the event space, Aunt Rachel and Uncle Jaxson give us appreciative once-overs from the sidewalk under twinkle lights.
Aunt Meagan is adjusting Uncle Jeremy’s tie, their bodies close together.
Uncle Jason and Aunt Sarah hold hands, about to head in with the group when she looks over and cups her free hand to call out, “You two look stunning!”
Hannah and I give them all hugs, telling them how great they look, too. I whisper to Uncle Jaxson, “I can’t believe she got you to show up!”
He smirks, suntanned face still handsome in his later years. His work on the ranch keeps him in shape. “When she told me she wouldn’t come home tonight if I didn’t drive her, she had me at her mercy.”
Rachel mutters, “As if you’ve ever been at my mercy. Hopefully one day,” which makes him laugh.
Aunt Jamie pops out of the door, and waves us in to help. Mom must be inside. Overflowing pots filled with planted flowers line our path as the five of us head in.
Hannah asks Jeremy if Zoe, his daughter, is coming. As he explains the other commitment Zoe has, I glance to my right and nearly pass out.
Tanner is leaning against a Porsche, watching us. No, his eyes are locked solely on me, and I can tell from his intense stare, they have been this whole time. As ten sets of footsteps don’t miss a beat, my lips part. I grip Hannah’s hand and she looks over.
Tanner pushes off the car and slides his hands in his pockets.
I break free of his gaze and disappear.
Chapter 29
TANNER
The hall is dimly lit, round, black table cloths rest under a dozen glimmering chandeliers. There is a podium and stage, long curtains tied with gilded rope along the walls. Two bars accommodate the guests. One is to my right as I walk inside and the other, outside under hanging strings of Edison lightbulbs dipping across the large patio. Elaborate bouquets accent every corner, and smaller arrangements are centered on each table.
Atlanta has dressed to impress, both men and women, but it’s Emma Cocker who I can’t take my eyes off of.
A bubbly woman approaches me. “Mr. Hamilton! Evelyn Stockbridge! I’m so glad you could make it. When I received your acceptance of our invitation I was delighted. Have you just arrived?”
“I have.”
She loops her arm through mine. “Up ahead you’ll find a silent auction. We’ll be playing several games throughout the evening, as well! Dinner is just lovely. Nancy Cocker hired the best caterers and she’s managing them! So if everything goes off without a hitch, it’s all her!”
“Nancy Cocker, you say?”
“Yes, the second matriarch of the very prestigious Cocker family, after May Cocker who is sitting right over there! She’s such a doll!” Evelyn points to a slight woman sitting in a long gown on two floral-print cushions that don’t belong in this environment. Beside her is a grey-haired, handsome man in his seventies. Perhaps eighties, but his build is so strong I’d be surprised, despite the lines in his face that have me unsure. “That’s her son, Michael Cocker with her. He’s married to Nancy. But don’t try to keep up! Goodness knows it’s not easy since there are so many of them! But if you love a challenge, those Cockers will give you one.”
Frowning, I say, “Indeed.”
“Outside is where most of the socializing is, before the meal, since it’s such a lovely evening! Can you believe this weather? Does it get this warm in San Francisco?”
“I see you’ve done your homework.”
Demurring with a glint in her eyes she waves my comment away. “As President of the Atlanta Woman’s Group I like to know who my guests are!” She lights up as she sees more money walking in. “Eleanor! Don’t you look divine tonight! Mr. Hamilton, enjoy yourself and if you need anything, don’t hesitate to find me, promise?”
“Promise.”
She runs off, my attention on Michael Cocker, ex-Congressman and Jake’s father, Emma’s grandfather. He leans over to say something to May and rises, walking to the bar. She is now by herself at the table and she looks so old. I frown as she accidentally drops her napkin. Taking swift steps to pick it up, I offer it to her.
Blue eyes sharp as a twenty-year-old’s drink me in. Her smile follows and a sweet southern drawl after that. “Thank you, young man. Aren’t you a handsome rake. Are you single?”
Stifling a laugh I answer, “I am, but I hope not to be for long.”
“Oh?” Frail hands unfold the retrieved napkin across her lap. “Anyone in mind?”
“Perhaps.”
“That’s too bad.” She winks at me.
“Mrs. Cocker, are you flirting with me?”
Her eyes narrow. “How did you know my name?”
Caught, I feel a flush heat my neck. “Evelyn Stockbridge just told it to me.”
“Ahh,” she smiles. “Evelyn is a climber, but it’s gotten her far so I guess that works for some people.”
I laugh outright, charmed. “You’re a blunt woman, Mrs. Cocker. I like that.”
“No, I’m honest…and too old for pretenses. What’s your name?”
“Tanner Hamilton,” I bow, lifting her hand to my lips and kissing it.
She points at me, squinting in her appraisal. “You really are special, aren’t you? Look at those eyes! My Emma would love you.”
I nearly choke on my own saliva. Clearing my throat I glance up and see Jake Cocker heading my way, dressed in a well tailored black suit. Damn if he hasn’t aged a day in ten years, save for more grey. And that rage hasn’t left him either. “Excuse me, Mrs. Cocker, I have an appointment with your grandson.”
She looks up and beams, “Jake! Do you know Mr. Hamilton? Wouldn’t he be a wonderful match for Emma?”
It’s a testament to how much he loves his grandmother that he doesn’t punch me right here and now. He smiles politely to her, kissing her head. “No, Grams, he wouldn’t. But you look lovely this evening as always.”
Grumbling, she floats a hand my way. “He’s a real man like you boys are, and like my Jerald. Emma needs a good man at her side, especially since Ethan went and beat her to the alter!”
Because of the look in Jake’s eyes, I don’t laugh or even smile. Right now I’m not sure I ever will again.
“Grams, excuse us but we have some…business to discuss. I see Dad returning with your brandy.” He gives her one last smile and walks away expecting me to join him. And of course I will. I’m no coward, and I’m not afraid of Jake no matter how good a fighter he is. I’m no slouch myself. Growing up with my father mopping floors at our school I got teased a lot. That didn’t last long. I earned their respect by kicking their bullying asses. It’s the only way to win, in my opinion.
As we cross to somewhere private I see Drew Cocker has spotted me with her husband. She and I lock eyes for the first time in a decade, and her lips part, just like Emma’s did. She stays put, greeting guests and flicking concerned glances our way, repeatedly.
“What are you doing here, Hamilton?” Jake growls, volume restrained.
“I heard you wanted another piece of me. So here I am.”
“I should clock you right now.” He smiles as four socialites pass and greet him by name. “Ladies. Looking very beautiful tonight.” They giggle and continue on their path. He returns, about to threaten me, but his eyes flicker.
“Daddy,” I hear Emma say from behind me before I turn. The sound of her voice does me in. I inhale sharply as she joins us and places a hand on his arm. Her face betrays nothing of what occurred between us. In fact she acts like
she doesn’t even see me. “Grandma Nance needs your help. There’s an electrical problem in the kitchen and nobody knows wires better than you.” Glancing to me her eyes light up with recognition. “Oh, Mr. Hamilton! I didn’t know that was you. Gosh, I haven’t seen you since I showed you that wonderful property. Have you made a decision on it?”
“I’m wondering if the buyer is still interested in selling.”
Her smile stiffens. “That’s a very good question we’ll have to address at a later time as I really do need to steal my father from you. Doesn’t he look handsome this evening?”
She takes his hand and smoothes his tie. Jake melts a little, but as he passes me he mutters, “Stay away from Drew this time or I’ll break every bone, Tanner.”
Emma looks over her shoulder. The frown that darkens her face sinks my heart into the ground.
Chapter 30
TANNER
I’ve had some time to think of how to handle this and I think honesty is best. Coming out and telling her what really happened, no matter how stupid it sounds, is the only way she’ll forgive me and give me a chance.
Over the hour and a half I’ve been here I gathered more information from the guests as I mingled about. It’s not difficult to get people talking about the Cockers. From them I’ve learned who Jake’s brothers are among the crowd, but they don’t seem aware of my existence. I’ve not caught any of them watching me. I think our battle must not be common knowledge, otherwise they’d be hyper alert. This gives me the advantage I need to get closer to the only person I truly care about.
Outside near the bar Emma sees me coming. Her blonde cousin turns to drink me in, eyes almost as cold, but there’s a hint of curiosity in hers that’s lacking in Emma’s.
I offer my hand. “Tanner. You must be Hannah.”
She holds her wine glass with both hands instead of one. “I know who you are.”
“Take that as a compliment,” I smirk.
“It isn’t one.”
I dip my head that I’ll concede this war of wit, and turn to the whiskey-eyed beauty, wishing more than anything we were alone for this conversation. “May I have a moment of your time?”
Her chin juts upward. “You may not.”
“You think I made a move on your mother.”
Her eyes flash with affirmation and the question of how I could do such a thing and kiss her, years afterward?
Sliding anxious hands in my pockets I tell her, “I met your great-grandmother tonight.” Surprise and something else, crosses Emma’s face but she hurriedly masks it. “May charmed me. I called her blunt. She corrected me and said she was honest and too old for pretense. It struck me, because I’m too old for pretense, too. Or games, as you said the last time I saw you. I don’t play games, Emma.” My voice deepens with earnestness. “I never made a move on your mother. I didn’t even know Jake thought I did, until tonight. In my mind I thought he fought me because I was a jerk and said something stupid, so I defended myself out of ego. Back then I was willing to fight anyone, anywhere. Drew is a beautiful woman but, I was sleeping with Cora then, remember? And I never go after married women. Too many complications and I always stay away from those. That is, until I met you.”
Emma’s beautiful mouth goes lax.
Realizing she’s the third wheel, Hannah mumbles, “I’m just going to go…inside now.” She slinks by me. “Nice eyes.”
My head turns in amusement, since May Cocker said the same thing. Emma’s wine glass is gripped in front of her like a barricade. I take it away and cup her chin. “I couldn’t stop thinking about you. I’m not here to help them raise money, though I put a hefty amount on some truly ridiculous silent auctions. I came here for you. I want you, Emma. I haven’t been the same since I met you and I need you in my life.”
She releases her breath. It’s gratifying to know I wasn’t the only one holding it. Touching my temple she whispers, “I want you, too.”
“I’m sorry I didn’t call. I needed to do this in person and I assumed you’d be here. Plus I needed time to think. This is new for me. I don’t do feelings well.”
“You’re doing a pretty good job.”
“With effort even a man like me can change.” I kiss the hint of wine from her lips.
“Tanner, I don’t know how we’re going to do this.”
“We’ll figure it out.” She leans into me for a deeper kiss, and gasps as I’m yanked off her and spun around. Emma shouts, “Dad, don’t!”
Jake punches me so hard I almost crash into her, but I stop just short, regaining my balance and standing firm. If it were any other man, I’d be punching back, but I can’t fault him for this hit even though my teeth are gritted—my baser instincts want to take him to the ground. But I won’t.
And then there’s them.
His brothers surround him.
Ready to pitch in.
Shit…now that’s a lineup.
I’m screwed.
Hannah is back and she pulls at her famous Senator father, “Daddy, this isn’t what you think!”
But Justin Cocker doesn’t want to hear it. “Stay back, Hannah!”
Jake punches me again. Hurts like a motherfucker but I take it, and mentally search for a way to stop this train from exploding, hurting everyone in sight. The audience has grown. Even her grandfather, Michael Cocker, appears in the crowd.
Drew rushes into our circle and locks eyes with her daughter who begs her, “Mom! Stop him! Aunt Jaimie, Sarah, Rachel, Meagan! Hold them all off!”
Drew says, “Jake, honey, stop!”
Emma squeezes in front of me and begs her father, “Don’t do this! I love him!”
The looks on everyone’s faces, especially Jake’s, sinks my gut. I’m not a father, not yet, but I know how special Emma is and I can’t blame him for hating every syllable of what she just said.
Right now…
I don’t look like a good man.
To anyone except her.
And maybe Drew and Hannah, if I’m lucky.
Cora Williamson shouts from behind a wine glass and a smirk, “Give him everything you’ve got, boys! Tanner, you deserve this,” she hisses.
Jake takes Emma by the shoulders and moves her.
The men come at me as a single unit.
Surrounding me.
I put up my fists.
Piercing through the air Emma screams that wild, animal scream again.
Jake freezes, shocked by the sound just as much as I was when I first heard it.
“He didn’t hit on Mom!” She points at her ex-boss with loathing in her eyes. “He was sleeping with Cora the whole time. Why do you think she just egged you on? She has no idea what happened with you guys back then! She just wants revenge because she’s bitter and won’t find her own damn happiness again. And you, Dad, your temper is so hot you never gave Tanner a chance to defend himself except with fighting. Mom, tell him what really happened, please!”
Jake looks at Drew whose sweet voice is much quieter than her furious daughter’s. “Is that why you fought each other that day? Honey, I thought it was over the planning of his friend’s project because we’d gone over budget and I never dreamed you believed he made a pass at me. He never did, I promise you. I would have said something because I like to see you jealous.”
Jake Cocker’s jaw tightens as the paradigm shift takes hold. With shoulders hunched like a fighter he eyes his brothers, then sizes me up before telling his daughter, “It doesn’t matter! He’s too old for you, Emma. I won’t allow this.”
Emma snatches up my hand.
I’ve never been so tense, but if she’s going to stand up for me like this I won’t turn her away and tell her to give it time, though that’s what I want to do, for her. For him. For all of them. Doesn’t matter now. I’ll stand by her, if this is her choice. She’s who matters most.
“Daddy,” she begins, “I’m so sorry but you don’t get to decide. I’m not your Baby Love anymore. I’m a grown woman and—” Her voice cracks. “
I can’t believe this is happening.” She turns into me and buries her face.
He’s glaring at me as I say, “Jake, I…”
But it’s Drew who pushes my arm and silently commands us to start walking. I meet her eyes, grimly nod, and guide her out.
The Cocker Brothers and their wives part to let us by. Hannah murmurs for Emma to call her. Michael Cocker has been joined by a woman who must be Nancy, and they’re upset but handling it like civilized people do.
Inside, Emma and I walk through tables of conversation toward her great-grandmother. She whispers, “Bye Grams, I have to go, I love you,” and kisses her head.
May Cocker smiles and gives me a wink. “That was fast.”
Chapter 31
EMMA
“I didn’t drive.”
His lips are grim. “We’ll take my rental.” He opens the door for me and I slide inside, pausing as I feel him watching me. Our eyes meet, his filled with fear that I’ll regret this.
He climbs in and we lock eyes. “Tanner, can you just take me somewhere?”
“Home?”
“Somewhere far away.”
A stiff nod and a half hour later we’re pulling off 75 for the Hartsfield-Jackson International airport exit. Tanner scans for signs that read Valet, finds one, slowing the Porsche until we’re at the white line. “Wait here.” He jumps out and talks with the man before opening my door and offering his open palm.
His hand is steady.
Mine is not.
Our eyes meet and he pulls me to him in a warm and comforting embrace. “You’re so brave, Emma.”
“Or stupid,” I mutter on a laugh.
He takes my chin, dark eyes somber. “I won’t let you down.” Lacing our fingers, and gripping tightly, we start walking. “I could call Dan and ask about flights, but what say we wing it?”
“That sounds amazing,” I admit. “Somewhere warm?”
“With a beach,” he nods, navigating us through the busy sidewalk of rolling bags and confused passengers whose eyes scan for signs of what to do and where to go, next. I know how they feel.
Cocky Love: Emma Cocker (Cocker Brothers of Atlanta Book 11) Page 12
