Page 10 of My Christmas Biker
“If we’re lucky.”
“I see.” Her hands clasped in her lap as her chin dipped.
“Hey, it doesn’t change a thing. We’ll drive all day and night if that’s what it takes.”
“Really?” She moved one hand and rested it on my arm. “I appreciate that, Brick.”
I tried to ignore the warm feeling in my chest with her response.
We ended up arriving at my ma’s house in about seventy minutes. I parked as far up her driveway as I could, glancing at the house and all the twinkling lights in multiple colors. Giant inflatable characters like a snowman, Santa, several reindeer, an elf, and a nutcracker decorated the front yard. LED-lighted trees added to the festive and welcoming scene. Candy canes lined the pathway to the front door. Her favorite part? The icicle lights that dangled from her front porch and over the garage. I’d hung them up the weekend before Thanksgiving per her request.
“My ma loves Christmas.”
“It’s very cheerful,” Ginger observed.
Dagger shook his head. “You have no idea.”
“Will we be staying long? I want to call my mom and tell her I’m on my way.”
“Not a problem. Twenty minutes should do it. Long enough to grab something warm to drink before we get underway.”
Ginger blinked, nibbling on her bottom lip. “I just realized I’m pulling you away from your mom on Christmas Eve. Will she be upset?”
Dagger snorted.
He knew exactly how my mother would react. I bet the entire state of Colorado would hear her shout for joy.
“C’mon. Time to meet my ma.”
Dagger opened his door when I did, and we all rushed toward the house. I tried to shield Ginger from the weather for the second time, noting that she pressed close to me long before we arrived at the door.
I didn’t hesitate to open it, hollering a hello so I didn’t startle the woman I respected and loved most in the world. “Ma!”
“Brick! It’s about time! Where have you,” she began, walking into the living room as the three of us stomped snow from our boots. Her hand slapped over her heart. “Lord Jesus! You did it!” Her lips widened into a grin so damn wide that I nearly cringed,guessing what she’d say next. “You brought a woman home to meet yer ma. Wow! I got my present early!”
I blew out a breath, loving her enthusiasm and hating it at the same time. “Ma. It’s not like that.”
She scoffed. “You brought this gorgeous redhead home for Christmas, and I’m not supposed to be ecstatic?”
Ginger giggled.
“When’s the baby coming? You pop the question yet?”
I jolted, daring a glance at Ginger.
Her jaw dropped open before she snickered, placing a hand over her mouth. I bet she thought she shouldn’t laugh. The more she tried to hold it in, the harder it became. After a few seconds, she erupted in laughter, dropping her hand. “I’m so sorry.”
“Don’t be. Anyone who can find humor in awkward situations is perfect for my son.”
Holy fuck. What did I ever do in life to deserve this shit?
Ginger held out her hand. “I just met your son at the airport. He was kind enough to offer me a ride since the weather ensured my flight was canceled. I’m Ginger.”
“Gingersnap. Just like the cookie. One of Brick’s favorites. Sweet with a hint of spice. I’m Nancy, but all my friends call me Nan. You should, too.”
I pinched the bridge of my nose. How many times would my mother try to sell me to Ginger in the hopes that we’d hook up?
Ginger nodded. “Of course. It’s lovely to meet you, Nan.”