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“Good. Then let him take his baby steps. He’ll get there.”
After dinner, they left for the dance at the community center. Gage and Sydney followed Booker and Clementine. When Booker parked his Blazer in one of the two spots reserved for law enforcement, Gage pulled into the other one.
He rolled down his window. “Does future mayor qualify for this space?”
“Sure. I promise I won’t give you a ticket.”
Gage laughed. “And the nepotism begins.”
The large room was decorated and reminded Gage of what prom must look like. He didn’t go to prom. But if he did, it would’ve looked like this. There was a good turnout, and he knew he’d be spending a fair amount of his time shaking handsand talking to people. That was the reason he originally agreed to come. But now, all he wanted to do was spend time with Sydney.
There was a table reserved for them, and they all sat down. Clementine picked up the placard with Gage’s name on it.
“Wow. This really brings it home. I’m related to the mayor.”
“Actually, you’ve been related to all the mayors of Calaway Crossing since they elected their first mayor in 1875. With the exception of Mayor Bessler, of course.”
Booker shook his head. “How did he even get elected?”
“No one in the family wanted to run. They were all too busy raising kids. Now they don’t have that excuse. But only Uncle Duncan was interested. Then when he couldn’t do it…” Gage held up his hand. “I somehow got wrangled into it.”
“You’re going to do great.”
“Everyone keeps telling me that. I sure hope I’m not a giant disappointment.”
Sydney patted his hand, and Clementine hugged him. “You will never be a disappointment. You’re incapable of being less than stellar.”
Sydney nodded. “I agree.”
Clementine stood and took Gage’s arm. “Before I spend the rest of the night dancing with my sexy husband, I want to dance with you.”
“You do?”
“Yes. You can’t turn down a pregnant woman.”
“You know, you’ve only got a couple more months to use that excuse.” He got to his feet and let her lead him to the dance floor. They found an open spot and began dancing.
She looked at him. “I can tell you’re happy. Which makes me happy.”
“I’m still getting used to the idea. But, yeah. I’m happy.”
“Good. I’ve always liked Sydney. And God knows, she waited long enough for you to come around.”
“I wasn’t aware of how she felt until recently.”
“I know. If you had known, would you have been ready to accept it and act accordingly?”
He shook his head. “I don’t think so. I think the timing had to be right. A year ago, I wouldn’t have known what to do with the information.”
“I like how honest you are, Gage.”
“We’re all honest.”
“I know. But you’re different.”
“Is that good or bad?”
“It’s good. Especially since Sydney is aware of it. She’s spent three years getting to know you.”
