said.
“But I don’t want to. I mean, why do you keep turning me down, Simon? I want you. I’m willing to give you whatever you want.” She tried to lean in close and she stumbled. “You know a lot of guys would beg for what I’m willing to do.”
“Not interested.”
She growled. “You think playing hard to get makes you cute. You will be mine, Simon and if you won’t play along, I’m going to tell everyone you forced me. Raped me.”
He threw his head back and laughed. “You know what, Amber? Go ahead. You think I don’t know what kind of game you’re playing? I do. I’m prepared for whatever you want to throw at me.”
“Hey, man, we saw the viperous bitch and figured you needed some backup,” Dean said.
Eddie was there as well. Both of his boys had his back.
“Thanks, guys. I can handle this bitch. Get gone.”
“One day, Simon. One day you’re going to want me and then I’m not going to let you have me.”
“Yeah, like that’s ever going to happen. You should be careful, Amber. I hear his girl is coming to town and she’s a mean bitch who likes to punch,” Eddie said, shouting to be heard.
Amber stumbled away.
Any idea of partying was lost to him. “I’m going to head on back. You two want me to walk you home?” Simon asked.
“Nah, we’re good, man. We’ve got a couple of dates. See you in a bit.”
He waved them off and left the creek, heading home.
It was late as he arrived home. As he let himself in, his stomach growled. After removing his jacket, he put his keys in the dish and walked into the kitchen to find his mom crying at the counter.
“Mom, are you okay?” he asked.
She nodded, lifting her head. “I’m just so relieved, you know.” She wiped the tears from her eyes. “God, I can’t bear to lose him. I love him so damn much.”
He went to her, holding her tightly. “I’ve got you.”
She rubbed his hands. “Thank you, for driving him to the hospital. I can only imagine the fear you must have felt.”
“I knew if I didn’t bring him home, you’d be pissed.”
She laughed. “That’s another dollar for the jar.”
“I don’t care. I know you love him, Mom. Just like he loves you.”
“You know, I always hoped you guys would find the same love I’ve been lucky to get. I know it’s going to happen with Tabitha. Your dad wants me to talk to you about her,” she said.
Simon groaned. “Do I want to know why?”
“She’s coming for Thanksgiving. Tiny wanted to rent a motel room, but we won’t have that. This house is plenty big enough for them. I know Angel and Lash are coming as well. We will make it work. You know how I love to have everyone around.”
“I know. Is this about sex?” Simon asked.
Lexie’s cheeks heated. “I’m trying not to be too embarrassed. I know you’re going to have it one day, if you haven’t had it already.”
Simon covered his face. “Mom, please, I’m a virgin. Let’s keep it at that.”
“What? You are?”
“Yeah, I haven’t been with a girl. Ever. The only person I want is Tabby and we’re not ready yet.”
“So your father’s been worrying for nothing.”
He nodded. “Yes, he’s been going through a whole lot of worry for no reason. Tabby and I, we’re not going to rush this. Believe me, we’re going to take our time.”
Lexie ran a hand over her forehead. “Phew.”
“Okay, I think I can eat a sandwich and go to bed.”
“I can make you something.”
“Mom, I can do it.”
“Sit, I will make you a sandwich. How was the party?” she asked.
“Dean didn’t fool you once, did he?”
“With the bowling alley?” She snorted. “Hell, no. Besides the fact I was young once, and you’re Devil’s son, the bowling alley is closed for the next couple of weeks for refurbishment.”
“Oh.”
“Yeah, tell Dean to come up with a better lie next time.”
“I will.”
“Cheese and pickle?”
“You got it.”
He watched as she made him a cheese and pickle sandwich. “Your pregnant again, aren’t you?”
Lexie shook her head. “I’m not pregnant, son. Your dad took care of that. We can’t have any more kids.”
“Then what is it?” he asked, concerned.
She sighed. “There was … I’ve had a few tests, and I’m due to have some more. It could be nothing. I don’t want to worry you with the details.”
He stared at his mom, wanting to know more, but he didn’t press. She was pale and