New England, New Romance

Chapter 14

Laney's parents had been married forty-two years, their friends Jim and Barb for forty-eight, both of their children were still married. Laney felt like the proverbial black sheep. She had invited a few of her single friends to join them today when she wouldn't have to be in charge of the boys full time. However only Jose could join them. He fit in well with the group and they all laughed and sipped adult beverages.

Jose had to leave at four because he had a hot date. Laney waked him to the parking lot, half-way to the subway station. Laney wished him good luck on his date. They hugged and kissed goodbye, maybe longer than necessary since they had not seen each other in so long.

Matt popped in front of her as she walked back towards the house.

"You're a hard person to get time with. You've been with your boys all day and I didn't know if you would want them to meet me," Matt confessed. "Not that I've been stalking you, I just swung by a couple of times," a flustered Matt said quickly.

Laney smiled to put him at ease.

"That is so considerate. I do think it is too soon. Maybe more for my parents than for the boys."

"Your parents are here?" Matt asked sounding a bit startled by the news.

"Yup. Are you ready for an inquisition? They are here with their best friends so they can tag team you."

"I thought you might want to talk? And shockingly we have somehow not managed to exchange phone numbers yet."

Laney laughed. It was amazing that they had forgotten to do that every time they met. She had left her phone at the house when she walked Rick to the parking lot so she couldn't take his number now.

"I might have a few questions for you," Laney smiled at him. "When would you like the interrogation to begin?"

"Would you like to go out with me tonight?" Matt asked with a gleam in his chocolate brown eyes.

"I can't go out tonight. I have plans with my boys. You look concerned; what's up?"

"I am going to be out of town the next few nights. I didn't want to leave before you had a chance to twist the thumbs screws," Matt chuckled. "You were seriously cool the other day by the way." Matt leaned over and kissed her cheek.

"I can meet you after I put Alex to bed. How about nine? Should I assume at the hotel?"

"No. I can't believe that I let you leave and didn't realize that you walked home alone last night. I will be here at nine to pick you up for the inquisition." Matt smiled at her as he backed away.