Page 77 of Grouch-ish

Holy Christmas gift. Not exactly what I expected him to say, but I don’t argue. Instead, I say, “Thank you. For giving me a second chance.”

Brock smirks. “My boss said you deserve it.”

Dad?

Then he adds, “My heart wants one with you as well.”

Chapter 23

[Brock]

I wasn’t kidnapping her. With Cap’s blessing, I was taking Pear to my place. For twelve days, like I said to her. This was her penance. She owed me time, but I didn’t want to feel like I was stealing from her. I wanted more days, and nights, learning about each other. She might need to grovel a little bit, but I’ll be on my knees as well, licking up every drop of her apology. I’m not a perfect man myself, and one little decision on her part does not put her on the bad girl list.

While misguided, her intentions were still good. She’d done it for me.

When we finally reach my house on the northwest side of the city, my anger has dissipated. I wasn’t half as mad as I might have appeared. More stunned. Maybe even a little surprised that she’d want me to stay when I’d come across as a total dick at first.

As for Pear, she was a bundle of nerves when we pulled up before my place. A two-story converted bungalow, typical of Chicago. I’d put a lot of work into the house, and I lived in a quiet neighborhood full of fellow firefighters, law enforcement, and nurses. This was my community. We shared yards, watched out for each other’s kids, and held a block party every summer.

I wanted Pear to like it here.

She pops open her door before I round the truck. Once she stands on the sidewalk, I place my hand on her lower back, sensing her anxiety.

“Your house is so pretty.” She stares at it in awe.

Pride fills my chest and I press a kiss to the side of her head.

“You’re beautiful. And my kids are going to love you.” Like I do.

When we enter the house, I’m pleased to find it clean like Ellie had promised. Both kids worked over the break to earn extra cash for college, and I had their schedules in my calendar. However, I hadn’t checked it before leaving the farm. I was a little surprised to find them both home, but also relieved. I wanted this introduction to be quick and easy.

“Hey, guys.”

“Dad,” Ellie squeals, jumping off the couch and rushing toward me for a hug.

“Hey, Dad,” Nick follows after his sister, leaning into me. The hug is short, more like a brief tap of our chests and a clap on the back. Gone are the days my boy lets me hold onto him.

Both stare at Pear, questions in their eyes. I’ve never brought a woman home before.

“Guys, this is Pear. Paradise Klaus. She’s Cap’s daughter. And she’s staying with us.” She didn’t have a place to live yet, and Cap agreed she could stay with me. Not that we needed his permission, but I appreciate his blessing. Maybe she’ll view the time as a punishment. Twelve days for my twelve, but I’m hoping not.

“It’s so nice to meet you,” Pear offers, holding out her hand but Ellie steps up to Pear and hugs her. Pear glances at me over Ellie’s shoulder. My girl is a hugger, but this is also a sign she instantly approves.

“It’s so awesome to meet you,” Ellie replies, pulling back to give Pear space.

“Hey,” Nick waves, before holding out his hand, shaking Pear’s. He slides his hands into his back pockets next, a tell-tale he’s nervous, maybe even crushing a little on Pear. His cheeks are suddenly red. “So you’re staying here?”

“Well, I . . .” Pear turns to me.

I’m quick to explain. “She’s staying.” Explanation done. “Let me go get our stuff from the truck. I’ll be right back.”

I’m smugly proud of myself as I scramble out to the truck to retrieve our bags, but panic hits before I’ve made it back to the front steps.

What if she hates my house, doesn’t like my kids, and suddenly feels trapped?

However, once back in the house, I’m hit with a well of emotions and top of the list is love. Nick has taken Pear’s coat and Ellie is showing Pear around.

Nick is hanging Pear’s winter jacket in the coat closet when he asks, “Where did you find her?”