Sugarplums and Second Chances

Chapter Ten

"Are you almost ready?" Chase called up the staircase. He'd been dressed fifteen minutes ago. Courtney had yet to appear. He checked his watch. The drive to the restaurant wouldn't take long. It wasn't as if they were late. He was just antsy. At least Courtney had agreed to come with him to the party. It was adults only, so Wyatt and Treyvon were hanging out at home, wrapping Christmas presents.

Was it fair of him to rope Courtney into being his date? She might not realize it, but being associated with him could bring her unwanted scrutiny. Guilty by association. Not everyone had been thrilled at having an ex-convict in town.

Maybe they should skip the party.

Movement above caught his eye. Courtney, in an ice blue sweater and cream slacks, descended the staircase. Her hair lay in big curls down her back, and her makeup accented her pretty features. When she made it to the bottom, he noted she was a few inches taller than usual. High heels. He almost groaned.

"You look stunning."

She smiled, dimples flashing. "Thank you. You clean up pretty good yourself."

He gestured to his thin dark gray sweater and matching gray dress pants. "This old thing?"

She laughed. "I thought that was supposed to be my line."

"No one would believe it. You're beautiful."

"Thank you." A faint blush rose to her cheeks. He helped her into her coat then led her out to the garage and into his truck. As he started it, he suddenly felt tongue-tied, out of his element. He fumbled around for something to talk about.

"I did some research on current programs for kids coming out of juvenile detention as adults." Chase placed his hand behind her seat and looked back as he reversed out of the drive. "I didn't see any for this part of Michigan."

"You might want to call the director, or whoever is in charge of the detention center, and ask what current support systems they have for kids."

"I was thinking the same."

They continued to volley ideas as they drove around the lake. The streetlights and glow of windows cheered up the winter night. Soon he parked outside the restaurant, then opened the passenger door for her.

"I'd better warn you not everyone is ecstatic I moved here." He tucked her arm under his as they crossed the paved lot.

"Well, I'm glad you moved here." Her smile almost made him stumble.

"I appreciate it but, be prepared for comments. If you feel uncomfortable at any time, say the word and we'll leave."

She patted his arm. "I was married to an NFL player, remember? I can handle it."

He followed her inside. Twinkle lights were everywhere. Upbeat Christmas music played, and clusters of people milled about, laughing and talking. Chase hung their coats on a rack then led Courtney to where he spotted Drew and Lauren.

"Hey, you made it!" Drew half-embraced him then turned to Courtney. "It is good to see you." He hugged her. "Courtney, this is my wife, Lauren. Lauren, this is Courtney Trudesta. She was married to JJ Trudesta, one of Chase's former teammates."

"Welcome to Lake Endwell." Lauren's big smile reached her eyes. "I'm so glad you came out tonight."

Chase kissed Lauren's cheek. "Who's watching William?"

"Mom's babysitting." Lauren grinned. "She's taken to the role of grandma like a champ." She turned to Courtney. "The baby doesn't sleep much, so if I yawn, forgive me."