Page 5 of Finding Redemption

“You hungry?” Ava’s forehead wrinkles in concern.

“I’ll have the same,” Riley says.

“Fresh fruit bowl and orange juice,” Ava adds. “Are you eating?” she asks me as the waitress walks away.

“I’m eating. Geesh,” I lie. I’m not eating.

“Well, you’re getting your fair share of barley, rye, corn, and wheat.” Riley chuckles. My eyes dart to his, and I silently plead for him to shut the fuck up.

“What are you talkin’ about?” Ava looks between us, waiting for one of us to come clean. As if she doesn’t know already.

“For fuck’s sake.” I sigh, rolling my neck to relieve the tension. “I have a few drinks before I lay down. It takes the edge off.”

“I’m sure it does.” Ava’s head drops.

I scrunch my face up at Riley. “It’s nothing, Ava.” I tap the table to draw her attention. She studies me, staring into my soul as only she can. Ava’s seen some shit, she knows things. And most of all, she knows me. “I promise I’m okay.”

She reaches for my hand as she takes Riley’s. “I love you two boys. You’re my family. My life. I worry about you both.”

My gut twists at her confession. Ava’s tough, and she means what she says. I squeeze her hand, giving her my million-dollar smile with a wink. “I’m good.”

“We’re here.” She smiles. “Anytime.”

I release her hand as the waitress approaches with our drinks. “So how are the weddings plans coming?” I ask.

“Right on track.” Ava and Riley smile at one another. “New Year’s Eve can’t come soon enough,” Riley says.

“How’s the new space?” Ava asks as our food makes it to the table.

“Good. I have a few plans, and my clients have mostly followed.” They listen closely as I explain my move is going as planned. “I’m sure I’ll be at full running by the new year.”

“That’s amazing news. They know something good when they have it.” Ava grins.

“Don’t forget the charity event after Thanksgiving in case we don’t have time to go this year,” Riley reminds me.

I pause, swallowing hard. “Lea and One’s?”

“How about we all go, make a thing of it?” Riley chews his lip.

“I can go,” I try to reassure him. “It’s been a year. I’ll be okay.”

They glance at each other and continue eating. We finish our food in silence. I’m sure all thoughts are on me. Ava kisses Riley before he closes her door, and she heads toward the college. Her graduation is tomorrow, and she has practice today.

“I’m fine.” I offer a tight smile.

“If you say so,” Riley returns as he climbs into the car. We waste no time returning to my office. I need help moving a few things. Besides, he’s free.

“Thanks, man. I appreciate your help.”

“No problem, bro. Let me know if I can do anything else.” Riley’s big ass could move all of this on his own.

“I need to find a place, so you’re on speed dial.”

“Why are you going to rent?” he asks with a cocked brow.

“Just not ready to build.” I lean against my desk. “I want to be married and then build the house.”

“Build it and they’ll come.” His face twists as he tries holding in his laughter.