Page 90 of Home in the Country
“Sure.” He gives me a side-eye before shaking his head. “Shouldn’t this be weird?”
“What?”
“Ex-husband and new boyfriend.”
Shrugging, I say, “I dunno, man, but I already told Fallon once I’d give her up for Briggs if she just wanted to fuck, so basically you get me regardless.”
“You really said that?”
“Yeah man, your kid is awesome and I just”—I scuff my boot on the ground, suddenly unsure—“I’ll do anything to keep him happy, you know?”
“He’s lucky to have you.”
My smile is small as we make our way out to my truck, but my heart is ready to explode. I didn’t realize how much I wanted Tanner to like me. He’s connected to Fallon and Briggs in a way that I’ll never be, but that doesn’t mean we can’t all make something newtogether.
The ride is quiet as I drive to the elementary school. It’s not until we’re parked that Tanner speaks again.
“Is it weird I’m nervous?”
“Nope. But it’s gonna be great, and he’s going to be over the fuckin’ moon to see you.” He’s nodding but his gaze is focused on the entrance.
“I missed him so much.”
“I can’t even imagine. Hell, I missed him for you.”
Tanner’s hand scrubs against his jaw, and it’s then that I notice that he hasn’t shaved in a few days, probably not since he left.
“Just so you know, I came today to make sure no one fucks with you.” He looks at me in surprise.
“That happen a lot in the elementary school parking lot?”
“Dunno. Never had a reason to do this. But I’m not gonna let anyone ruin this for Briggs. They see me with you and hopefully they’ll move on. We’re gonna figure this whole thing out together.”
“Anyone ever tell you you’re like a golden retriever? It’s annoying how damn likable you are.”
Grinning, I say, “It’s been said. But more importantly I protect my family.”
We’re saved from any more emotional breakthroughs as the bell rings, and I see Fallon walking toward the front steps. Tanner notices her too, and we pile out of the truck and make our way to what will hopefully be our own blended family.
I didn’t know this is something I would ever want, that I would ever be okay with, but being here now, I know every single moment in my life has prepared me for this one.
30
FALLON
No one prepares you for the magnitude of seeing your ex-husband walking with your boyfriend for the first time. If Tanner was just my ex-husband, this wouldn’t be such a big deal, but he’s the father of our child and will forever be part of Briggs’s life and mine too.
Humility washes over me in waves as they approach. I didn’t listen to Tanner and I didn’t trust the strength of my relationship with Otto, even though he’s done nothing but show up for me day after day.
“I’m so sorry, guys, I—”
“Later,” Tanner says as he holds out his arms. I step into them without hesitation because I missed him and I’m a mess. “Good luck,” Tanner singsongs on a whisper before moving toward the door.
Otto’s eyes narrow at me as I wring my hands together. My heart is in my throat, and I’m so nervous I feel like I’m going to be sick.
He doesn’t give me a chance.
Otto takes one step into me before his hands are threaded in my hair and his lips land on mine. Gripping his forearms, I surrender to the onslaught of need and passion and possession that he pours into the kiss.
