April laughed and Drew couldn’t remember when he last heard her that relaxed. It did something to his heart that had him worrying for his ability to focus tonight.
“They’re watching television. Homework is all done, and they’re to be in bed in an hour. Don’t let Leo try to con you into any later, or he won’t wake up in the morning. I knew I shouldn’t have let Drew talk me into a date on a school night.”
“You couldn’t resist my charm, admit it.” He took her arm, pulled her close. The heady perfume wafted over him and he couldn’t wait to get her alone. A quiet dinner overlooking the bay and a chance to prove to her that she needed him in her life. What could possibly go wrong with her in his arms?
“Off with you two, and don’t hurry home. I’m more than happy sitting here on my own.”
“Thank you, Gigi. It’s very kind of you to offer, although I fear that Drew probably didn’t give you any choice.”
His aunt laughed. “I offered, April. And anytime you want someone to look out for the children, you only need to shout out to Atticus or myself. We’re family, you need to remember that.”
“How could I forget? You’re all too kind to me.” She picked up her purse, kissed Gigi on the cheek, and hurried to hug the children while Drew stood watching her.
“Make sure you don’t leave her wondering if you’re serious, Drew. She doesn’t need someone who isn’t prepared to follow through.”
“You can count on me. I’m not letting her get away from me again. Of that you can be assured.”
“Good. I love her like one of my own.”
April came toward him, cheeks flushed, her purse gripped in her hands. “I’m ready.”
Drew held out his hand. “Let me.” He tucked her hand under his arm and led her down the path to the car where he helped her into her seat. He walked around and slid in. “Dinner at the boat club then some quiet time overlooking the lighthouse. How does that sound?”
“Fabulous. I love it, Drew.”
Warmth enveloped him as he started the car and drove down to the harbor. He’d booked a table out on the sheltered veranda since the night was so clear. They would eat overlooking the water before he took her for a drive to one of their favorite spots to round off the evening. She would go home tonight enveloped in the knowledge that he loved her, and that they would make a future together just as they’d planned.
The waitress led them to the table and Drew held out a chair for her before taking his seat opposite. They took the wine menu and placed an order for drinks before the waitress left them alone. Drew reached for her hands. “How did the children do today with Bradley? Did they like him?”
April smiled, a satisfied glow about her. Drew had left after telling her he was taking her out for dinner and he hadn’t seen the psychologist return with the children. “Yes, they did. Tilly was impressed that he listened and didn’t try and tell her what to think. I guess she had the idea that what she was feeling was wrong and she was waiting for him to tell her she was a terrible child for hating what happened. Bradley let her talk and get a lot of suppressed anger out. It was good for her.”
“And my little friend Leo?”
“Ah yes, Leo. All I’ve heard since he got home was how wonderful Rocket is. I know I’m being buttered up for a dog. I can see it now.”
Drew laughed, loving how much she relaxed when she talked about her children now compared to when she first arrived back on the island. “It might be just what he needs.”
“Not yet. I’m not really in the right place for an animal to take care of.”
“It’s something we can look at long term. I’m more than happy to have a dog.”
“Drew. Don’t tease me with things that may not happen, please. I don’t think I could stand it.” A worry line creased her brow.
“I’m not teasing you, April. I want you and the children, I’ve told you that. As soon as you’re ready to take the plunge, I’m here for you all.”
“How did I get so lucky?”
“I know what you mean.” He ducked as she pretended to swipe her hand at him. “No, seriously, April, I want to be with you and the children.”
“Ready to order, folks?” The waitress broke the moment as she stood at their table waiting for them to make their decision.
After a romantic dinner, Drew led her outside to the car. The evening had turned chilly so he took off his jacket and slid it over her shoulders before she climbed in and buckled up. April leaned against him as he drove away from the marina toward his house on Point Piper Road. “That meal was divine. Thank you for taking me out tonight.”
“I’m glad you finally let me spend some alone time with you. I have every intention of proving to you that I mean what I say.” Drew smiled, satisfied he’d finally got her alone.
“You hardly have to prove yourself to me. I’ve known you forever.”
“I’d be happy to give you anything you want, April. We have a lot of years to make up for.”
“No we don’t. What’s past is past. We need to make new memories, not try and bury the old ones. They’re what made us who we are.” She sighed and snuggled in closer.
“That’s not exactly what I meant, but you’re right. We’ll make new memories with the children.” He reached for her hand. “I know I said I was taking you to the lighthouse but would you mind going to my house instead? I wanted to show you how gorgeous it is at night and
