Page 38 of Daddy's Naughty Bartender
"That's wonderful, honey!"
"That's not the best part!" He pulls out his phone. "Look at the comments. People want to see more. They're calling me 'Small Town Mechanic' and asking for tutorials. And, Mom..." His eyes shine. "Ford's social media team reached out. They want to sponsor my content. Sponsor it!"
Jason and I exchange glances. From the ashes of small-town cruelty, something unexpected is blooming.
"That's incredible," Jason says.
"It's because of you," Josh says suddenly. "The video thing. You suggested I document my work, build a portfolio. I never would have thought..."
"You did the work," Jason corrects. "I just pointed out your talent deserved an audience."
Josh hugs him. Actually hugs him, this man who entered our lives mere weeks ago but has somehow become essential. "Thank you. For everything. For believing in me, just... everything."
"You're welcome." Jason's voice is rough as he returns the embrace. "You're a good kid, Josh. Your dad would be proud."
"You think?"
"I know."
Later, after Josh has gone to call Emily with his news, Jason and I sit on the porch swing, watching the stars appear.
"You handled that well," I say. "The mention of Mark."
"He's part of your story. Your children's story. I'm not trying to erase him." He pulls me closer. "I'm just trying to write the next chapter."
"It's a good chapter."
"Getting better." He's quiet for a moment. "I've been thinking about something else."
"Should I be worried?"
"Maybe." He takes a breath. "I want to make this official. Not just the relationship, but the commitment. The dynamic. I want you to be mine in every way that matters."
"Are you proposing?"
"Not yet." His smile is soft. "But I am suggesting we talk about what we both need. What we want. How to build something lasting that honors who we are."
"And who are we?"
"Two people who fit. Who balance each other. Who've found something worth protecting." He kisses my temple. "I want to marry you, Karen. Not now—you're not ready. But someday. When you trust me enough to wear my ring."
My breath catches. Marriage. "That's... big."
"Yes." No hesitation. "It is. Think about it. We have time."
"All the time in the world?"
"All the time you need." He stands, pulling me up with him. "Come to bed. Let me hold you. Tomorrow we'll face whatever Prairie Harbor throws at us. Tonight, just be mine."
"Jason?"
"Mmm?"
"Betty Henderson doesn't know who she's messing with."
His laugh is rich, warm. "No, she doesn't. But she's about to learn."
And wrapped in his arms that night, feeling the solid weight of his presence, I believe him. We'll weather this storm and any others that come.
