Page 25 of Finding Redemption

“As soon as we eat.” Ava turns, placing her hands exactly as Andi’s to answer her.

“God help you, man.” I chuckle as I walk toward the deck.

“Tell me about it.” Riley rolls his eyes.

“You love it.” Ava giggles.

“Damn straight.” He pauses, kissing her before continuing to follow me outside.

I set the plate down when Riley hands over my beer and opens the grill. “Y’all okay?”

Riley frowns, twisting his mouth to the side. “That obvious?”

“Little bit.” I pop the top on my cold brew. “She gettin’ cold feet?”

His head snaps up, eyes locking on mine. “Fuck no. What the hell?”

I shrug, throwing my hands up. “I’m just asking. What am I supposed to think?”

“Not that, motherfucker.” He’s angry as hell. I’m not sure with who, though.

“Well, then what is it?” I stare at him.

He shakes his head. “I can’t say right now, but it’s gonna be fine.”

He doesn’t look like it is. “All right. Get a move on. I’m starving.”

“Me too,” Andi says. Riley glances at her and then at me. I’m positive he’s thinking what I am… fuck. Wonder how long she’s been there? “I’m ready to play this game,” she chirps.

I grab her, pulling her down beside me. “I bet your poppa’ll get it first.” I tickle her side.

She giggles. “I think so too.”

A knock at the door draws my attention as Mom and Dad join us for dinner. Our mom, Cynthia, is as stunning as ever; her brown hair falls over her shoulder. Our dad, Ian, follows closely behind her, looking more like our brother than our father. Our parents are aging well. A shower approaches, squashing our picnic plans, so we gather around the dining room table.

“Hello, sweetheart. How are you?” my mom greets me with a tender kiss.

“I’m good, Mom.” I wrap my arms around her.

“You should visit.” My father gives me a once-over. I’m sure that won’t be his only advice for the night.

“I promise, I will as soon as I get settled.” I hold my mom’s chair for her. “I need to move on Lachlan’s case and then I’ll have some free time.”

“Are you sure that’s who you’re wanting to make moves on with that case?” Riley snickers, earning an elbow from Ava and a snarl from me.

“I’m positive,” I growl.

“Ummm, okay,” he says, chuckling. I narrow my eyes at him, making him respond with his hands in the air.

“What’s Riley referring to?” our dad asks, giving me a death glare.

“Nothing. I have it under control,” I answer flatly.

“A girl. From what I hear, she’s breathtaking.” Ava smiles.

“And a ball buster,” Riley snickers.

“Riley Ivan, watch your mouth with the baby here,” our mother scolds, much to my delight.