Taste of Commitment (Whisky and Risky #2)

33. Taylor

Taylor

After I finally charged my phone and talked to Camila, Knox was ready to move me into his house that night. But with the way everything was changing so fast, I wanted to hold on to my little corner room on the top floor of the main house for a little while longer.

We spent the rest of that day and the entirety of the next one in Knox’s bed until he had to go coach a game. I initially felt a little weird tagging along, but I soon found myself in the stands cheering alongside the entire town of Stoney Meadow, all decked out in their Sundevils gear.

I fell more in love with Knox at that moment, watching the pure joy and pride on his face that he had for those kids. It’s a look I’ve become very familiar with.

And the man is hot as fuck.

Jonas

Should I add life coach to my resume?

I set down my flat iron and a laugh bubbles out of me as I pick up my phone.

Taylor

Don’t quit your day job.

Jonas

I could never. How would I hear that you were staying in Ireland if I didn’t have Miles Cameron to play telephone with?

Taylor

I was going to call you. It was a last-minute decision.

Jonas

But one you’re happy with?

Taylor

Beyond

Three little bubbles dance across my screen and I bite my lip waiting for a response.

Jonas

I’m proud of you, Blondie.

My shoulders drop and my eyelids follow. I know I don’t need anyone’s approval to make this choice, but I can’t lie and say it doesn’t feel better knowing I have my friend’s trust and support.

Jonas

Tell all your single friends I’ll be there for a visit this summer.

Taylor

Done.

I take one last look at myself in the mirror and tuck my white tank top into my jeans before grabbing my new moss green oversized fleece cardigan I picked up from another town market a few days ago and have been living in .

I bounce down the stairs and round the corner to find everyone is already seated, and all eyes are on me. Liv is beaming ear to ear, Liam, beside her, eyes me suspiciously, and Ryder dips his chin in a silent greeting. I feel Sophie and Ava’s gaze on me as well, but when my eyes catch on those perfect autumn evening eyes, I can’t look away. I find my seat and there isn’t an ounce of hesitation when Knox slides his fingers through my hair, cupping the back of my head, and plants a searing kiss on my lips. If people are talking, I don’t hear it. My eyes close and I smile against his lips. When he finally pulls back he drops his forehead to mine and kisses the tip of my nose. “Hello, love.”

“Well, I’ve never gotten a greeting like that,” Liam quips and the table comes alive with laughter.

I right myself in my chair, looking around at the feast prepared tonight but not oblivious to all the questioning eyes still on me. It’s no wonder they’re curious. I was supposed to leave tonight, and I haven’t said anything. There isn’t a doubt in my mind that this was the right choice, I just hope like hell they’re as excited as I am.

I clear my throat, place my hand over my cloth napkin, and rub the material in the corner back and forth. Just tell them. They’re going to be happy. The back of my neck heats, and Knox’s warm, tan hand covers mine. I look at him, and his lips pull up into a smile that matches his eyes. He dips his chin once silently telling me it’s okay, and I respond with my own nod. He lifts my hand to his mouth, brushing the lightest kiss to my knuckles before thrusting my fist in the air. “She’s staying!”

An eruption of fist banging on the table, and soft claps ring out. Before I know it, Liv is squeezing me from my left and Sophie from my right. Ryder gives Knox’s shoulder a tight squeeze, and the girls make their way back to their seats. My smile is pulled so tight it almost hurts, and the relief in my chest is enough to make me cry. Knox drapes an arm around the back of my seat, and I focus my attention on Isla, who holds her hands together under her chin with a slight sheen in her eyes.

“If you have availability, I’d like to extend my stay.”

“You need a job, Tatertot? I’m in need of a barback,” Liam says.

“Hush, Liam.” Isla flicks her hand at him. “She already has a job. With me.”

Her smile lines are deep, and I can no longer hold it in. I get up from my seat, with salty streaks dripping down my cheek, and I make my way to the end of the table. Isla scoots her chair out, and I drop down, wrapping my arms around her neck.

“Thank you,” I whisper, holding her a little tighter.

She cups my cheek in her hand and doesn’t break eye contact when she says, “My sweet girl, you belong here.”

I blink, and another tear falls. I pull her back in for another hug, and she rubs my back in a motherly embrace.

I am home.

I wipe my tears, moving back to my seat where Knox’s arm is outstretched to me.

“Damn. I really did need another barback,” Liam mutters, leaning an elbow on the table.

“How about Liv?” I point to where she sits across from me and her eyes go wide. “Since you won’t be needed in the kitchen, that will open up some free time for you.”

Liam turns his attention to Oliva, where nothing other than the column of her throat has moved, and he raises that pierced brow at her. “What do you say, baby Browning? You want to come work with me? ”

She ignores him, her eyes turning murderous on me, and I hide my smile behind my water glass.

Dinner continues without a lull in conversation, and I stop to look around the table at the family I’ve gained. And then to the man I love, who was able to help me let go of that fear I had carried for so long by giving me a taste of commitment.