The Cursed Cross (Cross 2)

17 - If Only

Tom frowned. "It's a blessing and a curse."

Tate wondered how it felt to have another man step in with his daughter. Maybe worse than Jimmy with another woman.

"You're frowning again."

"It's a little sad."

He shrugged. "We have fun when we're together. Right, Rosie?"

She looked at her dad like he hung the moon. "Can we go to story time?"

"Later. The local bookstore has a story hour. I always end up buying the book."

He spoiled his daughter with books. Meanwhile, she overheard Jimmy say he wanted to buy his cousin's daughter a pony. Rose talked about her books while Tom tapped on his phone. He frowned.

"Bad news?"

"No, she said it was fine. Then she reminded me Rose likes you. I didn't tell her you don't like me."

Tate frowned. "I'm sorry. If you would rather not spend time together?"

"No. We both like to include you."

Tate smiled. She enjoyed her time with father and daughter too. "Okay. The car will pick you up at seven. Does that sound okay?"

"Perfect."

Tate wore the gold gown she had worn to her mother's summer party over a year before. She felt more optimistic with Tom by her side. He was a handsome man and a better friend, if only she could have a redo with the cross.

When he stepped out of his building, she smiled. "I like your tuxedo."

He winked. "This old thing?"

She had a keen eye for the latest designs. With evening wear it was as minor as the width or angle of the lapel. His was recent. "It's not old."

"No. When I received the invitation to Bates, my aunt insisted I needed a tuxedo."

"But you wore a suit."

He smiled. "You remembered. My uncle told me to wear a suit. No one respects Bates."

She frowned. "I don't. How's Priscilla?"

"I've been avoiding her floor. I met your brother's friend in the elevator."

"Ivy? When?"

"Last week."

"She didn't mention it, but she's busy with wedding planning on top of billing hours."

"I'm just busy billing hours."

"And Rose." He nodded. "What are you working on?"

"Can't say."

"If it's Jimmy, it is probably a revenge acquisition."

"I really couldn't say."

"Last I knew he was after Bates and my ex and his cousin's ex."

"You know I can't confirm or deny."

"I tried." Tate almost said Jimmy would tell her. "I'll tell my mother we're just friends but she might think we're dating and give you the third degree."

"Fine with me."

"The third degree?"

"Well yes, but the dating part."

Tate shook her head. Maybe she was wrong. She enjoyed spending time with him. He checked the right boxes. Her father had said love of a companion. Could Tom be that love for her? She liked him more than Duncan.