Page 23 of Our Promise
“Yeah, I’m sure everyone is relieved to not be holding on to the secret proposal and wedding. Elle was ready to burst a few days before because Jo was so miserable. The things we do for love.”
“Speaking of love…” His father smirked before taking a sip of his whisky. They both had switched out their cocoa for arealdrink. “I see you and Elle are getting closer.”
Now it was his turn to hide his smile behind his glass. Truth was, Benny wanted her desperately. There was no hiding his burning desire for her as they sat around the open flames. He couldn’t pull his eyes away from her and he noticed though she tried, her eyes always found their way back to him.
“I love that woman, Dad.”
“I know that. Does your brother know that, though?” His father nodded to where Lorielle and Gavin were screaming about something. They could see them through the screen of the porch, playing around.
Benny knew his father was teasing him. Gavin was a harmless flirt and Benny loved how Lorielle interacted with him. Tara was easily irritated by Gavin. It was nice to see someone he cared about cared for his siblings.
Family was a big part of his life. His childhood was a huge reason he wanted a family of his own. He couldn’t wait to do the things his parents had done for him and his siblings when they were younger. Even now, family trips were always a thing, and he was glad it didn’t stop when they hit a certain age.
“I’m not worried about that fool.” He shook his head, moving on to something more important. “Gavin told me about the band.”
“He did?” His father’s eyes doubled in size.
Benny nodded. “He did. I can’t say I wasn’t looking forward to him coming on board, but I’m glad he’s getting to experience something different.”
“I just hope he doesn’t get caught up with life on the road and forget about school.”
“I said the same thing, but Elle reminded me he had us to look up to and he’s a smart kid. I believe he’s going to do theright thing, and even if he does slip up, he’ll have us to guide him back on track.”
“Elle is a gem, and you have a pretty good head on your shoulders. We did good with you. Now your sister is where we messed up at.”
They laughed as the door opened, and his mother stepped out. “Hey, Benny. I didn’t know you were still out here.” She walked down the path and moved straight for her husband. He pulled her onto his lap and that was Benny’s cue to leave.
He gathered his things and cleaned up his area.
“I missed you.” His father kissed her neck.
She snickered. “I was only gone a few minutes.”
“I still missed you.”
“Show me how much you missed me,” his mother whispered, but it was still loud enough for him to hear.
Benny made a face, his nose wrinkling. He was disgusted. “All right. Can y’all wait until I get into the house?”
She giggled. “Good night, Son.”
“Good night, y’all.”
He wasn’t mad at them at all. Benny had some plans of his own.
When he walked back into the house, things were quiet. It seemed everyone had gone their separate ways. Trey’s parents had an early flight, so they were already up in their room. Gavin was playing the game or about to get on it. It was a part of his brother’s nightly routine. As for Lorielle, he hoped she was waiting on him as he requested.
Benny walked down the hall to the study. He stopped at the door, taking a deep breath. He pushed it open, finding the room empty. A bitter feeling took over him. He thought he and Lorielle were making progress, but he guessed not. For her to be older, she played a lot of games.
Benny climbed the stairs and moved straight to his room. He opened the door but came to a halt when he saw Lorielle by the fireplace. Flames flickered off her body that was covered with a long, sheer, powder blue nightgown. He couldn’t explain it, but the matching robe added to the sex appeal.
Her hair was down, hanging past her shoulders. Her face was makeup-free except for a little lip gloss. He hoped it was the one he was growing fond of that tasted like strawberries.
“I thought it would be better if I met you here.” She watched him with curious eyes as he advanced on her. She wondered what his next move would be, but she wouldn’t have to wait long to see.
“I thought you stood me up.” His hands rubbed over the smooth fabric on her hips as he pulled her into him. “You look beautiful.” He moved her hair to nuzzle her neck. “And smell amazing.” Like vanilla and apricots.
“Thank you,” she said breathlessly. “This is for you.” She pulled back, bringing her hands from behind her back. She revealed a mug.
