Page 25 of Towering Contract
“I’ll talk to her,” I say as I wiggle for Flynn to put me down. He reluctantly does but keeps me pressed snuggly to him.
It's been strange not having my mom in my life for the past few months. I used to see her every day, but I needed time away. When I get closer, she steps out of the car, and seeing her brings a rush of emotions back. I’ve missed her.
“I was hoping we could talk,” she says.
“Sure,” I quickly agree and walk toward the front door. “I’ll make some tea.”
“That sounds lovely.” She glances around, taking in the house, and her eyes move over to the garden. “It’s beautiful.” She smiles. “This place was made for you.”
“I love it here,” I agree. I couldn’t have dreamed this up. Thankfully, my husband knows me better than I do myself at times.
“How long have you been working on this place?” she asks Flynn.
“I bought it a few years ago,” he says before holding the door open for us.
“You made it for her.” I’m surprised when her eyes start to water. My mother never cries; she’s always put together.
“I knew if I wanted to keep her, I’d need a garden she couldn’t resist,” Flynn says playfully, not holding a grudge.
“A kitchen too,” Mom adds when she steps into ours. “You really went all out.”
“When it comes to Zelly, I’ll do whatever I have to.”
“I believe you.” Mom tucks a piece of hair behind her ear, and I can tell she’s nervous. “I owe you both an apology. It’s clear you’re nothing like your father.”
“He’s not,” I say, taking Flynn’s hand.
“I know, and I truly am sorry that I judged you for something you have no control over. I was scared. It’s why I started to rush for Zelly to find a match. I knew you wanted to marry her, and we all knew she’s been in love with you for years. I thought I was keeping her safe, but all I did in the end was hurt her. I know I can be overbearing, but I love you, Zelly. You’re my little girl.” A tear slips down her cheek.
“Mom.” I go over and hug her. “I love you too.”
“I’ve missed you.”
“I’ve kinda missed you too,” I admit.
“I wanted to come sooner, but I knew you needed some time.”
“I did. Flynn and I had some lost time to make up for.”
“How about I make you ladies that tea?” Flynn offers.
“I’d like that,” my mom says, and the tension in the room eases as we fall into conversation. Mom wants to know everything we’ve been up to.
When I tell her I’m pregnant, her face lights up, and we spend the next hour talking about a baby shower. I can’t stop smiling when Mom goes to leave and gives Flynn a hug.
“So?” I ask my husband when the door closes behind my mother.
“I’m happy you’re happy. That’s all that matters.” He smiles before sweeping me off my feet. “But I was in the middle of something before your mother showed up.”
“Hmm.” I tap my finger against my lips. “What was that?”
“You were going to be a dirty girl for me.” His smile is devilish as carries me up the stairs.
“That’s right,” I agree before he sets me on the bathroom counter. “You know I’d do anything for you too,” I confess, and Flynn cups my cheek.
“You’re already doing everything just by being mine.”
Epilogue