Joshua Healy (The Mitchell/Healy Family #10)(28)

I cover my mouth. “Is it that bad?”

He’s laughing. “I’m kidding. I can already tell you think it’s some astronomical number. Sure, I’ve picked up women for the sole purpose of getting laid, but I’ve also mentioned that I don’t have one-night stands. That being said, the number would surprise you, because it’s mostly with the same people. Does that make sense?”

Now I need that number. “So, would you say, twenty, fifty, or more like triple digits?” I’m wondering if I need to make an appointment at the clinic immediately if he answers high.

“Go with the first number, plus or minus a few.” He winks, before disappearing.

It’s not as bad as I thought.

When he’s truly gone I think about what he’s said to me. He’s so honest it’s scary. I’ve never had that before. As much as I want to be able to trust a man, it’s going to take a lot longer than a week’s time for it to happen. For now, I’m content, happy even. I feel lucky, hoping that there might be a chance for us. He wants me to meet his whole family. He’s talked about all of them in depth. I feel like I already know most. It’s still a bit overwhelming.

Against his wishes, I dress in different clothes and find my way to the kitchen. His mother Amy is sitting at the kitchen table looking at her phone. When she sees me she puts it down and gives me all of her attention. “Did you sleep well?”

“We stayed up too late playing video games.”

“Don’t tell me Josh made you play video games. That boy will never grow up.”

“I play actually. It’s something we do together,” I correct her.

“Really? Well that makes me happy.”

I shrug, feeling a bit shy, but open-minded. “I wondered if I could help cook breakfast? Josh said you have a huge dinner to make, and since he’s invited me to hang out, it’s the least I can do.”

She’s very pleased by me. The truth is written across her face like a neon sign. “I’m sorry, sweetie. I’m in a bit of shock. You must be doing something right with Josh. That’s all I’m going to say.”

“I know he’s had quite of few…um.”

“He’s very popular. He gets those looks from his daddy. It’s not his fault. Plus he’s the baby. He’s the youngest of all the cousins, so he’s spoiled beyond belief. I’m paying for that now.”

“He’s been kind to me.”

“Good. You might just be exactly what that boy needs to get his act together. You’re definitely a good influence. He’s been walking around with a smile for the past week, and usually he’s hotheaded and starting with his father.”

“I can’t take the credit. We’re friends.”

“I had a friend once,” she starts. “Twenty some years later and he still makes the earth shatter.” She winks afterwards, as if I’m supposed to get the innuendo.

I hear her loud and clear, but fear she’s going to get her heart broken when or if things don’t work out with me and Josh.

He was right about one thing. She didn’t make me feel uncomfortable, and for that I’m grateful.

After our first chat, the conversation between Amy and I got a lot more relaxed. She gave me a rundown of what to expect when the whole family showed up later, and also spoke of her excitement to have all of her children together after several months of scheduling preventing it to happen. Josh's sister Cassie is a detective and her new husband is now an FBI profiler. Amy explained that their hours are crazy. She spoke highly of her daughter Cammie, who now has two children and a degree in internal medicine. Callie cuts hair with her mom occasionally, but stays home for the most part since her husband recently got a promotion with his new company. Instead of working for the government, he's put his skills to use and manages a crop production crew. I'm not exactly sure what it means, but they must do okay. During our conversation I got the inclination that she wanted more for Josh. Sure, he'll always be set with a job, but I could tell she wants him to have his own life aside from the ranch.

I also feel like I’ve entered into his life when he’s at a crossroads, and I’m not sure if that’s a good thing, or terrible.

A bit later, the four of us are sitting at the large kitchen table enjoying breakfast. Amy has made a huge spread including pancakes, two meats, potatoes and biscuits. They each watch me taking my first few bites. Amy sips at her coffee, while the men dig in. I keep looking at Josh with that fitted baseball hat sitting backwards and he’s every bit of or even possibly more sexy than he is without one. When he smiles and those sugar bowl dimples fill his cheeks I’m in awe.

His father is quick to start up a conversation with me. “So, Josh tells me you’re in college.”

“Yeah. I’ve changed my major a couple of times, but hopefully I’ll be finished in the next year or two, depending on my course selections next semester.”

“Do you know what you want to do?”

“I think I want to teach.”

“Wow, that’s admirable. Good for you. We’ve only had one child graduate college, and she has a tough time. Do you have help paying for it?”

I look from Josh to his father. They’re so similar. Those eyes. My god they both have them. It’s crazy.