Obsession Falls (The Haven Brothers #1)

“They’re going to look great.”

She smiled. “I’m so sorry about all this. You’re supposed to be working and here you are worrying about me.”

I pulled her in again and wrapped my arms around her. “Don’t apologize. This isn’t your fault.”

It was Colin’s fault. And I was going to put an end to it. Now.

CHAPTER33

Audrey

Max poppedup from his brief nap and went to the front window, his tail wagging. I glanced outside and saw my mom’s car. I wanted to be happy to see her—excited to finally show her my new place—but after the note on my car, it was hard to feel anything but a vague sense of dread.

I wished Josiah hadn’t left.

Granted, I had a feeling it was for the best. I didn’t quite understand why my mom had decided to come visit but it didn’t feel like the best time to introduce her to Josiah. He wasn’t in a good mood, and neither was I. I didn’t want to deal with the anxiety of whether or not my mom would approve of my boyfriend.

Especially now. We’d cross that bridge later.

Besides, she was stuck with him, no matter what she thought.

“Max, go lie down.”

He gave me the most forlorn puppy dog eyes you could ever imagine.

“I know. It seems like it’s always good news when someone comes over. But Grandma needs to warm up to you. Give her space.”

Obviously he didn’t understand a word of my explanation, but he did partially obey. He stood on his dog bed. Not quite what I asked him to do, but I’d take it.

I opened the door for my mom and she handed me a plastic box of cookies from the grocery store in Pinecrest.

“I thought I’d bring something sweet, but you know I don’t bake.”

“Thanks, Mom.” I let her in, shut and locked the door, then hugged her with my free arm. “Do you want coffee or tea?”

“Tea would be lovely.”

“I can do that. Good boy, Max.”

He wagged his tail.

“He is a nice boy, isn’t he?” She walked over to Max and started petting his head. “Good doggie.”

I hesitated in the doorway to the kitchen, watching my mom initiate friendly contact with my dog, probably for the first time. It was oddly endearing.

He dropped to the ground and rolled onto his back.

“He wants belly rubs,” I said. “That’s his favorite.”

“What a good doggie.” She leaned over and rubbed his belly.

“Speaking of pets, I bought something for Duchess.” I fished the cat toys out of the bag I’d left on the counter. “You can take them when you go.”

“That’s very sweet of you. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

Mom gave Max a few more pets, then followed me into the kitchen. I started the water and got two mugs out of the cupboard.