Page 29 of Three Reasons
Eli
Lunch is tense, and I’m not sure it’s just because we’re here uninvited. Something was discussed before we showed up, and from the way everyone is acting, it seems that Sally and her father are the only ones on Gray’s side.
The mother finally speaks again as dessert is served—a German chocolate lava cake. “So, Callan, Eli, what is it you do for work?” I half expected her to ask about our dynamics first.
“We own a landscaping business, for several years now.” I grin. I’m proud of our company. Callan wears an expression like he’s ready to defend what we do.
“Landscaping.” She says the word slowly as though trying to understand its meaning. “That must keep you busy in the summer months. What about the winter?”
“Busier than the summer, actually. We also do snow removal for hundreds of residents in Ruby, including several businesses. We take care of salting and ice removal, and this year, we’ve added on roof maintenance during the season. Nobody wants their roofs caved in from heavy snow,” I explain, much to her chagrin.
“Interesting. And your parents, what do they do?” She takes a bite of her cake, and Gray throws a glare at the older woman.
“My parents own an autobody shop in Toronto. It’s been in the family for over fifty years,” I reply. They’re proud blue-collar workers.
“And you, Callan?” The look she gives him clenches my jaw tight.
“Mom is a homemaker; she works on a lot of children’s charities and volunteers at a few childcare facilities that cater to the less fortunate. My father passed away two years ago, but he was the chief financial officer at the children’s hospital,” Cal bites out.
“He was a doctor, then?” she asks, a satisfied grin on her face.
“No. He was a businessman. Previously, he would buy up broke companies, sell them in pieces, and then build a solid business from their structure before selling again.”
“How’d he get into medicine, then?” Margo wants to know.
“That’s personal.” Callan shuts her down, and I know why. I also know he’s finished speaking to them. Gray’s hand shifts to wind her fingers between his as she rests her head on his shoulder, not pushing for more but offering comfort in a way I don’t think anyone has since his sister died over a decade ago.
“Are you done interrogating them?” Gray finally looks towards her mother, a stubborn tilt to her chin as she stares the woman down.
“I didn’t mean anything by it, Grace.” Her eyes roll, and Gray gets to her feet, her fists balling at her sides.
“Mom, I love you…all of you, and after all you’ve put me through, I’ve not cut you off. I’ve remained in contact and accepted your berating and criticism, but you don’t get to do that to Eli and Callan. They’ve shown me more kindness in the few days we’ve known each other than you all have in my entire life.” Cal and I stand up behind her, giving her the strength I sense sheneeds. “We are leaving. When you’re all able to be kind to them and me, please call. Please reconsider the way you treat your own daughter, and sister, because if I know anything, it’s that I deserve better.”
“Wait!” her father says before she's able to take a few steps from the table. “I thought we were making progress since you came home?” The man seems to be sincere.
“Dad, I was forced here against my will through violence. You might have been kinder, but you’ve still been trying to push what’s his name on me. If I marry, it’ll be to who I choose and because we love and respect each other. Not to further your career.” I don’t know if anyone else sees it, but I notice how her hands shake at her side and hear the shimmer of emotion in her tone. I bet if I saw her eyes right now, there’d be a sheen of tears in them.
Gray doesn’t give anyone else a chance to speak as she storms out, and we follow. This woman is a powerhouse, and I don’t think she’s realized it yet. While Callan and I can and will stand up for her, she doesn’t seem to need us to. Her vulnerability is what gives her strength, and I’m insanely proud to bear witness to every moment.
Gray
The cool air hits me like a slap in the face, and I instantly regret not grabbing a jacket. I also refuse to re-enter that house. The last two days have been strained. Dad and Sally might be sticking up for me more, but that doesn’t mean they’re genuinely on my side.
Mom, Margo, and David are still adamant that I marry Andrew Malcolm. I refuse to be in the same room as him. I don’t know the guy, but I know his dad, and if they're anything alike, I’ll want nothing to do with him, either.
Warmth engulfs me from behind, and I lean back into Callan’s solid chest, absorbing his heat as he nuzzles his face into my neck. “Nothing hotter than you standing your ground.” He groans, and I sigh, turning into him.
“Hopefully, this will be the last time.” Murmuring against his lips, I don’t hesitate to take the kiss I really want—the one I need, where he winds up taking over and devouring me.
Callan doesn’t disappoint. His tongue delves in deep, and he uses the pressure of our mouths to tilt my head further back so he can explore unimpeded.
“Truck's heating up.” Eli’s fingers tease across my back before gripping my hand and tugging me out of Callan’s hold. Their fun little tug-of-war is finally broken when I giggle and dart towards the inviting vehicle, jumping in before either man can catch me.
As Eli sits behind the wheel and Callan hops in the passenger seat, I ask, “What’s the plan?” not exactly expecting a particular answer.
“Ever been to the JW in the Ice District?” Callan asks, wiggling his eyebrows. I’m loving his playful side today.
“I’m ashamed to admit that I haven’t even been since they built the new arena.” I’ve wanted to, I just haven’t had the time.