Chapter 32

It hit me: Jason needed me. New relationships could wait. Being a good father was priority one.

"Alright!" Jonas cheered. "Let's hit that buffet!" We chatted happily all the way.

Just as we were about to dig in, I saw Lorraine. She was with a young man. She spotted me and smiled.

"Mr. Joplin! What a coincidence!"

"Indeed," I replied, nodding.

She turned to Jonas. "This must be your son. He's adorable."

Jonas mumbled a shy greeting. Lorraine introduced her companion, Ian Sommerton. Ian shook my hand.

"Lorraine's told me a lot about your investment knowledge."

I was surprised. After some pleasantries, they went to their table. Jonas watched Lorraine intently.

"Daddy, who's that lady?" he asked.

"Just a friend," I said, chuckling.

"She seems nice," Jonas mused.

I helped him with his food.

At the restaurant entrance, Lorraine caught up with us. She seemed hesitant.

"Mr. Joplin, Ian's very interested in investments and would love your advice. Would you be free for dinner sometime?"

Before I could answer, Jonas piped up, "Daddy, can we invite them to our house? I want Blossom to meet new friends!"

Looking at Jonas's eager face and Lorraine's hopeful expression, I nodded. "How about this weekend? Saturday night?"

"Yes!" Lorraine exclaimed.

On the drive home, I felt conflicted, but Jonas's excitement made me think maybe giving myself a chance wouldn't be so bad.

Chapter 33

Saturday arrived in a flash. Jonas and I spent the morning prepping—grocery shopping, cleaning, Blossom darting playfully around. In the afternoon, I started dinner: brisket, grilled salmon, roasted vegetables, and homemade soup. Jonas helped prep the vegetables; we worked in perfect sync.

At 7:00 p.m., the doorbell rang. Lorraine and Ian stood there, gifts in hand.

"Please come in," I said. "You really didn't have to bring anything."

Lorraine looked around admiringly. "Your home is so cozy."

Jonas burst from the kitchen. "Hi, Ms. Sommerton! Hi, Mr. Sommerton!"