Chapter Twelve
The day he’d received the box with his mother’s letter melted into the past. Though Aedan didn’t go back to his aunt’s house, he spent the time trying desperately to reach someone in Dingle, anyone who could help him. But dealing with government offices in every country seemed to be the same—a giant pain the ass compounded by language barriers and red tape bullshit. Information was slow in coming.
Within that time, he’d also been job hunting and working at Pat’s. He’d gotten a chance to speak with Riley and the rest of the Collins brood—not in one big group as he’d hoped but the word got around. They were excited to have him home—given they had questions—but all decided they would plan something close to him, so they could all celebrate.
Aedan wasn’t in the mood for celebrating but when that family said party, they meant it.
A week and a half had passed, and Aedan finally received a job offer. Though it hadn’t been for one of the jobs he’d applied for, he read it and considered it seriously. This job would keep him in Baltimore and in some form of enforcement. He would be training new Quick Response Team recruits for the city of Baltimore.
The pay and benefits weren’t bad either.
“So, you’re not going to take it?” Tristan set a plate in front of him.
“I don’t know,” Aedan replied. “I spoke to the chief and they got some glowing recommendations from my former commanding officer. They want me, even with the leg.”
“Amputees do amazing things every day,” Tristan said. “I’m sure that wasn’t a thought for them. It’s doesn’t make things impossible. You just have to be a little more—creative.”
“True. I would need to get back into training myself. I mean, I can’t have my guys do these obstacles when I’m not even capable of them.”
“You’re the teacher, remember that.”
“Yes, but what’s good for the goose.”
“Is good for the gander. Got it. Look, Cal, you’re not super-human. There are going to be things that you can’t do and that’s okay. But you can’t let the fear of failing stop you from trying.”
Aedan nodded. “And I have to talk to Mona before I make a decision.”
“Oh.” Tristan leaned in, stole one of Aedan’s fries and shoved it into his mouth. “You’re really serious about this woman, huh?”
“Very. She’s the one, Tristan. I know it.”
“Good. It’s good to be sure about these things. How does she feel?”
Aedan shrugged. “I don’t know. There is so much going on right now. I mean, she has a trip coming up with her best friend next month. I have to figure shit out with my mother—first, I have to find my mother. And then there’s—”
“Hey you two!” Kiera greeted them. She kissed Aedan’s cheek, blew Tristan a smooch and stole a couple of Aedan’s fries.
“Between you and your moocher brother, I’ll die of starvation.” He pouted.
Keira grinned. “Caring his sharing. I’m not staying—I’m just here to grab some food for the family. I’m in zero mood for cooking today.”
“Hey, Kiera, you have a connection at the Irish Embassy, don’t you?” Tristan asked.
“I have a friend who works there. Why?”
“I’m trying to find my mother,” Aedan confessed.
“Um—why?” Kiera asked.
“She thinks he’s dead.” Anger tinted Tristan’s voice.
“Why would she think you’re dead?”
Aedan delved into a shortened version of the story and Kiera’s eyes filled with fire.
“Well that’s a bullshit thing to do to anyone!” Kiera said. “I’ll make some calls. If your mom is still in Ireland, we’ll find her. Even if she’s not in Ireland—I’m sure Will has connections all over the place. We’ll make this work for you.”
“Thanks. I appreciate it.” Aedan looked up at Tristan. “Listen, I have to run. Mona is spending some time with her best friend today. I think I’m going to swing by with some food. I’ll grab some stuff from Sunday’s.”
“Um…” Both Kiera and Tristan chorused.
“And I need a kiss.” Aedan said, unashamedly. “See you guys later.”
“You’ve got it bad.” Tristan accused.
Aedan smirked. “Right?”
“Aren’t you ashamed?” Tristan laughed.
“Not even a little bit.” Aedan offered his friend a mock salute.
“Later!” Kiera offered.
With a smile, Aedan hurried next door and in no time at all he was riding off toward Mona’s house with a bag sitting on the belly of the cycle between his legs. He slowed his ride down to enjoy the heat of the sun washing over his body as the breeze made its own special music, whizzing around him. It took a little longer than usual to reach Mona’s, but he didn’t mind.
Finally, he pulled up beside Esme’s car in the driveway and parked. He let himself into the house and closed the door behind him. “Mona?”
“In my office!” She replied.
Following the hall, he found both Esme and Mona curled up on the sofa, watching a movie. He smiled and leaned in to give Mona a kiss but greeted Esme with a wink. They’d met briefly at a girl’s night at Pat’s. “Ladies, I come bearing food. I’m not staying.”
“Aww.” Mona took the bag and immediately peered in.
“It’s your time together. I only wanted to steal a kiss.”
“I’ll give you two some privacy,” Esme said, a knowing smirk on her lips.
When they were alone, Aedan pulled Mona into his body and kissed her like he wanted to. “That’s more like it.” He whispered. “Are you two having a sleepover?”
“No. Esme would like to run a few errands and then she has to meet up with someone tonight.”
“Oh—so, can I see you?”
“Of course. Can I take you on a date tomorrow?”
Aedan laughed. “Are you asking me out, Mona Lisa Frye?”
“Yes. A picnic?”
“I accept. But you’ll have to keep your hands to yourself. I’m not that kind of man.”
She giggled and groped his ass. “No getting to second base, then?”
“Only if you treat me right.”
“Don’t worry, Aedan Callahan, I’ll be a perfect lady.”
Aedan laughed and kissed her again—
—deeply.