Page 88 of Forbidden Moon
RJ snickered, assuming Evan was trying to be humorous. He changed his tune when the eager mob surrounded the two of them with shouted questions and demands for attention. Jonah picked up Evie and admonished them to settle down.
“Mind your manners around a guest. Let’s all go into the living room until supper is ready.”
RJ felt his hands being snagged by two of the boys, apparently the twins, though their names escaped him. As they passed the dining area, he noticed a handsome guy pouring drinks. The man waved at him, set the pitcher down, and walked over.
“Hello, RJ. I’m Lance Stucky, the kids’ nanny. I live here with them, so you’ll always see me around.”
No longer the center of attention, the twins deserted their guest and ran into the living room. Lance shook his head.
“Don’t worry about those two. They have a lot of extra energy to burn off, and the night is young. I want to say how happy I am for you and Jonah. He’s one in a million and about the sweetest guy I’ve ever met.”
RJ smiled broadly.
“No argument from me! I’ve never met anyone quite like him. We seem to be good for each other.”
Lance nodded.
“You certainly are! Everyone knows you make him happy. Listen, I need to finish with the table, and we’ll talk a bit later. I can hear the little ones asking for a story, though you’ll have to make it quick; we’re about to eat.”
RJ joined Jonah and the kids on the floor as Ben walked in carrying several boxes, prompting Evan to get up and help him in the kitchen. From the mouthwatering scent of food, it must be their dinner. RJ’s stomach grumbled. The kids all laughed and crowded around him. Jonah shrugged.
“Prepare for the inquisition!”
Mitchell went first.
“Is ALL of your skin brown?”
Jonah interrupted.
“Mitchell! I don’t think that’s a proper question to ask a guest.”
RJ smiled.
“It’s OK, Jo. They’re just curious.”
He turned to answer and found six pairs of eyes watching.
“Yes, Mitchell, all of my skin is brown, though it’s lighter on my palms and the bottoms of my feet.”
He held up his hands so they could see. Mitchell turned to Marco and Max with a smug grin.
“Itoldyou!”
Evie Rae piped up with a compliment.
“I think you are beeyooteefull! Uncle Jonah thinks so too.”
Jonah leaned over to kiss him.
“Absolutely.”
Derek chose to go next, blurting out a humdinger.
“Did you have two daddies or a mommy and a daddy?”
What an odd question, but then what can you expect from a kid? RJ didn’t see Jonah give Derek the EYE.
“Well, now, I had a mother and a father. Their names were Lottie and Rascal.”
