Page 64 of Pieces of Us
I shake my head. “His dad is really coming down on him. Critical of his work, pressing him about finding someone to settle down with.”
“Wow, I had no clue.”
“His dad has always had high standards for him.” I shrug. “I always thought he was nice, but I guess he’s changed over the years. For starters, this settling down thing is new. It seems like every time Marcus meets a requirement to take over the business, he comes up with a new one for him to complete.”
“It seems so archaic to me to be so concerned with your adult child’s relationship status.”
“Speaking of, has your mom called you yet?”
She pushes off the counter, grabbing two mugs from the cabinet and pouring coffee as I pour batter into the frying pan.
“No.”
I set the bowl down and rub her back. “I’m sorry.”
“I’ve made peace with the situation. Does it suck that I have to wait for her to step up and be a supportive parent? Yes. But I’m not going to chase after her acceptance.”
“You have my mom in the meantime.”
“Your mom is sweet. She texts me every morning.”
“She does? She only texts me like twice a week!”
“You’re not carrying her grandchild.” She laughs.
“True, but I am her actual child. I feel neglected.”
“Poor Linc.” She smiles at me over her coffee cup.
“Can you grab the plates? These are almost done.”
I dish out the pancakes, and she takes the plates to the island. I grab the syrup and forks.
After a healthy pour of syrup, Mel takes a bite and does her happy food moan. I grin and look at her. She doesn’t know it, but I make breakfast every morning so we can sit, talk, and I can spend time with her before our day begins. My day is always better when it starts with her.
She takes a second bite, and as she slips the fork from her lips, a drop of syrup escapes her mouth and drips down. I use my thumb to swipe it from her chin, her eyes darting to me. She watches intently as I place my thumb in my mouth.
“You had some syrup there.”
Her eyes stay on my mouth as I lick my bottom lip. “Thanks.”
“You’re welcome.”
I go back to my pancakes, but I don’t miss her shifting in her seat and crossing her legs. I smile and quietly finish my breakfast.
Chapter Forty-Five
Melonie
On Sunday morning, Gigi texts me to meet for breakfast. We skipped Bostonia to try a new spot. I still can’t tolerate the smell of sweet potato donuts.
We order our food, and Gigi leans forward on the table. “So, how are things with the roomie?”
“Good. Really good.” I place my napkin on my lap and start arranging the silverware.
When I look up, her eyes are narrow, and she’s wearing a smirk. She knows my tells. “What base have you made it to?”
“G! This isn’t high school.”
