Page 134 of Redemption Ridge Vol II

“I don’t get it,” Keegan said, looking between his grinning friends.

“And we need to expedite your pop culture education,” Rueben said. “That’s a classic movie that everyone needs to see.” Sven and Rueben bounced movie quotes back and forth, and Keegan had to admit he was intrigued.

“I’ve got time to kill before my first shift at the Feisty Bull starts,” Keegan said. Sven was all for movie time, but Rueben grimaced. “It’s okay if you have plans with Seth.”

The remark only seemed to make Rueben feel guiltier. “I don’t feel like we get to spend much time together outside of work.”

Keegan missed hanging out with Rueben too, but he was happy for his best friend. “You came to art therapy with me today, and I really appreciate it.”

Rue bumped his shoulder against Keegan’s. “I had fun, and I’m looking forward to going with you again.” Rue leaned over and lowered his voice. “It’s interesting to see what your subconscious confesses through your paintings.” Rue jabbed a finger at Sven. “And you!”

Sven clutched his chest and batted his long eyelashes. “Me?”

“Yes, you,” Rue said. “Let Keegan make his own decisions and steer his own course. He’s had enough people trying to control and manipulate his journey to last him three lifetimes. Kee doesn’t need that from you.” When Sven protested, Rueben cut him off with a wave. “What feels helpful to you might feel stifling to him.”

Sven searched Keegan’s eyes for several moments, sighed, and nodded his agreement. “I’ll be on my best behavior from now on.” A tiny smile tugged at his lips. “Besides, the train has left the station and is chugging full steam ahead to happily ever after.”

Keegan’s heart thundered like a locomotive at the mere thought of something special brewing between Kerry and him. The good intentions he gripped in his hand turned to sand and sifted through his fingers.

Rueben blew out a breath and shook his head. “I tried, Kee.”

“And I appreciate the effort.” Keegan wouldn’t hold his breath that Sven’s ceasefire would last long.

The diner door opened, and Lucinda walked to the front counter, where a server greeted her with a smile. Kerry didn’t look a thing like his petite, blonde mother, but Natalie had been her spitting image. The server pointed to their table, and Lucinda followed her gesture. Her light blue eyes met Keegan’s and lit up with recognition seconds before she headed toward their table.

Rueben whistled softly. “Wow, she is happy to see you.”

Sven turned his upper body to see who Rueben was talking about, then smiled smugly. “Told you so.”

“My boys,” Lucinda said, opening her arms wide, though they would’ve slid out of the booth to hug her without the encouragement. “You’ve made my day.” She hugged Sven first and ensured he was enjoying a much-deserved day off. Sven worked as a stylist at Lucinda’s salon, and his services were in high demand. He only allowed himself one Saturday off a month, and Keegan was humbled that Sven had spent it with him at art therapy. “Rue,” she exclaimed, cupping his face. “You get more handsome every time I see you. Marriage really suits you.” Then, it was Keegan’s turn to say hello. “Keegan,” Lucinda said reverently. She took his hands in hers and squeezed. “I love you so much it hurts sometimes.”

Emotion clogged Keegan’s throat. If he could have torn his gaze away from Lucinda’s, Keegan knew Sven would be wearing a smug expression. “I love you too.”

“You better, because I’m keeping you,” Lucinda said before she dropped his hands. “I better pick up my carryout order and head back to the salon. My break between clients isn’t very long today.”

“Are there any updates on Kerry’s lawsuit?” Rue asked.

She smiled and kissed his cheek. “Steven and Kerry were holed up in the war room when I left. I know they have Dom working on the case since they can’t see Vinny until Monday. Kerry texted me a little while ago and said he was headed to the rescue station to stay busy. That’s better for him than watching a Jurassic Park movie marathon and eating his weight in buttered popcorn and M&M’s.”

Sven visibly tensed, and the smugness drained from his expression. “Did you say Dom?”

Lucinda looked at him with a puzzled expression. “Surely you haven’t forgotten Kerry’s best friend. You used to follow them around like a little puppy.”

Sven smiled, but the gesture looked forced. “Of course I do.”

“Dom went over to Kerry’s house last night as soon as he heard about the lawsuit.” She reached for Keegan’s hand again. “I’m so glad my son has such wonderful people in his life.”

That time, Keegan caught Sven’s smug expression. He was tempted to ask questions about this Dom guy just to wipe the arrogance off Sven’s face. Maybe he should bring the guy up every time Sven poked his nose into Keegan’s business.

“Are you coming to family dinner tomorrow night?” Lucinda asked Keegan.

“Um, I’m not sure.” Despite Kerry’s denial, Keegan still felt like he was underfoot. Kerry needed one Keegan-free zone in his life.

“He’ll be there,” Sven said.

Lucinda’s light blue eyes twinkled merrily. “Maybe the newlyweds will join us,” she said to Rueben.

“Maybe,” he replied noncommittally.