The Swear Jar

by Osorio, Audra

  Returning her embrace, he kissed the top of her head. “I missed you too.”

  She tilted her head back. “No more separations. Is that understood, Sir Duncan? My heart can’t take it. I’m lost without you.”

  He nodded. “Understood. I don’t like being away from you either. What’s in the basket, Little Blue Riding Hood? What’s in the other bag?”

  “The basket is Thanksgiving leftovers from my travels. I don’t want to eat another bite of turkey, but I figured we didn’t have much food here. The other bag is a surprise for you.”

  “Are you going to take off your raincoat? Or am I the Big Bad Wolf?” He nuzzled her neck.

  She giggled. “Oh, Big Bad Wolf. I hadn’t thought of that. Let’s keep it in mind. The bag has all the lingerie I bought. Do you want me to show you?”

  “Let me ask you a question first. Were you really wearing a new nightdress last night? Or were you pretending?”

  “I wasn’t pretending.”

  “Then I’ll need to put 911 on speed dial. Maybe we could take it one at a time? I’m not sure I could handle a private fashion show.”

  Opening her raincoat, she revealed a long, satiny, lavender-colored nightgown and robe. The robe’s buttons down the front made him nervous, but seeing a hint of cleavage made him immediately want to undo them to see the nightgown underneath.

  He exhaled. “If this ensemble is any indication of what you have in that bag, I’ll have to insist on one at a time. You should take the day off tomorrow. You’re looking a little pale. I’ll need to thank you exuberantly for this lovely gift.”

  She squinted. “I should carry a dictionary, you devious man. What do you mean gift?”

  “If I’m the only one who’s going to see your lingerie, then I consider them a gift. I’m glad you didn’t wait until Christmas. That would be cruel after last night and seeing you in this. How many days until Christmas? And can I unwrap one each day? I feel like a kid in a candy store. Thank you, Lady Meara.”

  She giggled, “You’re the only one who’ll see them. If they’re gifts, I’ll have to present each one. It doesn’t seem like I have to do much tempting or seducing. I’m a little disappointed.”

  “Don’t forget the Big Bad Wolf. I can play hard to get. Just ignore the drool. I have something for you too.”

  “I didn’t know we were exchanging gifts,” she teased.

  He removed a square box from his pocket. Inhaling sharply, she recognized it as a jeweler’s necklace box. He held it out to her.

  “Lisa and Andrew asked me to watch John in the mall. John and I had fun window shopping. I saw this. I had to buy it for you. I knew it was yours. Open it,” he said shyly.

  “Duncan. Don’t you want to save this for Christmas?” she asked nervously.

  “No. Open it. I want to know if you like it or not.”

  Opening the box, she found a necklace with a heart-shaped pendant made of yellow gold and small diamonds. Her eyes filled with tears.

  “If you don’t like it, we can return it and get something else,” he said quickly.

  “No, Duncan. I love it. It’s beautiful.”

  “If we had to be apart, you would always have my heart with you.”

  “Duncan.” Tears slid down her cheeks. “I’ll always wear it. You really shouldn’t have. You’re spoiling me.”

  He kissed her tears away. “You’re spoiling me. It’s hard to keep my hands off you with that outfit. Let me put the necklace on for you.”

  He fastened the clasp while she held up her hair. The necklace fell right above her cleavage, an invitation to Duncan to see what the nightgown looked like under the robe. He played with the buttons. Her face turned pink.

  “May I unwrap my present now?” he asked, kissing her.

  “Sir Duncan, we should retire to our boudoir. We shall recline amongst the pillows as you hold me in your embrace. I have missed my noble knight and I desire to celebrate his return.”

  “Lady Meara, I shall not deny your desires. We will celebrate our triumphant reunion merrily. I’m not sure how much rest we’ll get, but we’re going to wear ourselves out. By the way, does this outfit also come with new undergarments?”

  “That’s for me to know and for you to find out.” She winked.

  “Lead the way, dear Lady.” He bowed, turned her around, put his hands on her hips and guided her upstairs.

  He was glad she liked the necklace. The heart pendant on a ribbon at Halloween had given him the idea. Heart shapes were perfect for her. In addition to the necklace, he had heart-shaped earrings for her Christmas present. He had a secret. He also had a heart-shaped, diamond solitaire engagement ring hidden in his dresser. He wasn’t sure yet when he would propose, but he was going to make her his wife.

  Chapter Forty-Four

  It was the night before Christmas Eve. Meara and Duncan were at his house. Her tension level was through the roof. He had asked if both families could meet for Christmas Day. It made no sense for his family to come for Christmas Eve and then go home. It was easier for them to stay overnight. And if they were going to stay overnight, meeting her family the next day was only natural. She agreed, but she was still going crazy.

  She wasn’t worried about the families meeting. She was worried about her mother, Kay, behaving herself. Meara didn’t want to lose her temper in front of everyone. She was also a party planner at heart and wanted everything to be perfect. She wanted to impress both families and show Duncan how much she loved him.

  He told her she didn’t have to impress anyone. She needed to enjoy Christmas too. He made sure she relaxed, slept well and ate enough. With a little help from the lingerie, he made sure she was satisfied as often as she wanted. He had his favorites. He hinted to her which ones he would like to see again. After that, he would take care of the rest.

  She was handling the details of Christmas Eve, but Lisa insisted on helping. He had taken care of cleaning up the house. They bought a Christmas tree. He brought out decorations he had squirreled away when Brenda died. They added a few decorations of their own. She was now going around the house, removing her things. She collected coffee mugs, books, afghans, and shoes. Frazzled, she stood with a pile of things in her arms.

  He watched her, bewildered. “What are you doing?”

  “I don’t feel comfortable leaving my things around for your family to see,” she said.

  “Why? They know we’re together,” he said.

  “But they don’t have to be slapped in the face with all my stuff around. It’s not respectful of Brenda. I’ll move my stuff out of your bedroom too.”

  He was infuriated. “You’ll do no such thing. If you want to pick up your shoes and books, fine. But I won’t allow you to remove yourself from this house, especially OUR bedroom. Is that understood? No one will be in OUR bedroom. I will not remove your photos or clothes or toiletries. You’re my girlfriend. You live here. End of story. So put the other things back. NOW.”

  He balled his hands into fists, waiting for her reaction. She was tense this evening. His attempts at calming her down had failed so far.

  Her shoulders slumped. “Yes, Duncan. I’m sorry I’m acting so crazy. I’m nervous. You’re so commanding, sweetie.”

  He slipped his arms around her waist. “Yes, I am. So drop the shoes and come upstairs with me. It’s bedtime.”

  “Honey, your family’s coming in the morning. I shouldn’t be here when they arrive. I won’t change my mind. I should go to my house and sleep in OUR bedroom,” she giggled.

  “I can’t change your mind? Even if I try really, really hard?” he smirked.

  “Very tempting, but I can start cooking for tomorrow. How about a compromise?”

  “What did you have in mind?” He was curious.

  “Pick out your favorite outfit and I’ll call you later,” she growled.

  “That’s an interesting compromise. You promise you’ll call me if you have any bad dreams?”

  She knew he worried even though she hadn
’t had a nightmare in a long time. “Of course, I promise.”

  “All right. I’ll let you go. You’re a good woman, Meara. I love you.”

  “I love you too. Shall I pack something for you to think about?” She kissed him.

  “I like the blue one from Thanksgiving.” He exhaled.

  “Done. Give me some time and I’ll call you. I’ll make sure Anne is secure for the night before I slip into something thought provoking.”

  “That outfit is more than thought provoking.” He slapped her buttocks.

  “DUNCAN!” She ran upstairs giggling.

  When she was ready to leave, he stood by the front door. As she drove away, he sighed. He hated not being with her. While he didn’t think it was disrespectful of Brenda, it would be awkward if Meara was there when his family arrived. But after this holiday, everyone, including Meara, would have to accept she was with him. He was going to propose to her on Christmas Day.

  He was moving fast, but he wanted her to know how important she was to him. He wanted their relationship to be permanent. He was nervous about meeting Kay. He wondered if Kay was as bad as Meara and Diana said. Meara didn’t care what her mother said about her, but if Kay hurt Duncan’s feelings or said something rude, Duncan feared for Kay.

  Meara called to let him know she had made it home. He could hear Anne in the background. Diana and Ben were letting them use their house for the two families to meet. Diana knew Meara was a better hostess, so Anne and Diana were following Meara’s lead. Meara had Christmas Eve under control and most of Christmas Day figured out. He had faith in her organizational skills.

  “You’ll call me later?” he asked, lowering his voice the way she liked it.

  “Yes. As soon as the ziti is made, I’ll call you. I’ve worn Anne out the last few days, so she’s nodding off already. Diana’s picking up my mother tomorrow. You do understand I won’t be staying over tomorrow night?”

  “I knew it was coming. I didn’t want to hear you say it. I can’t change your mind?”

  “No, my love.”

  “But I’m staying over Christmas Day night?”

  “Yes.”

  “Then I should have sent you home with two outfits.”

  “I can pick up one tomorrow. Unless I’m getting one as a present?”

  “Only Santa Claus knows. You might be on the naughty list or it might be a little too intimate for Santa.”

  “Remind me to take you lingerie shopping between Christmas and New Year’s. Most guys cringe, but I think you’d like it. Just remind me to bring a drool bib.”

  “Sounds good. Call me soon. I’ll be waiting,” he growled.

  Duncan awoke to the sound of his alarm clock. He was dazed and naked, tangled in the bedclothes. He wasn’t the only one who could talk dirty. Meara was as talented with her voice as she was with her hands. The last thing he remembered was saying goodnight to her, exhausted. Exhaling deeply, he hit the snooze alarm. He reminded himself to give her a spanking for being such a naughty girl. Smiling, he dragged himself out of bed.

  He made the bed, knowing she would be horrified if someone saw it unmade. He had time for breakfast and a cup of coffee. He was tempted to call her, but she was coming back around one o’clock and his family would arrive any minute. The doorbell rang. He opened the door while a giggling John rushed in and hugged him.

  “Grandpa! Merry Christmas! Santa’s coming!” John shouted.

  “John, Merry Christmas! Have you been a good boy?” Duncan asked.

  “Yes, Grandpa! I’ve been a good boy. Where’s Miss Meara? I thought you said she would be here,” said John.

  “She’ll be here later, John. I promise,” Duncan laughed.

  Andrew, Lisa and Sean hugged him. He helped carry presents to the family room. They marveled at the huge Christmas tree. John ran forward, squealing with delight and wanting to touch the ornaments.

  “Dad, what a tree!” Lisa said.

  “Hey, is that the ornament I made years ago?” asked Sean.

  “Yes, it is, Lisa. Meara likes Christmas trees. We got the biggest we could fit. And yes, Sean, that’s your ornament.”

  Andrew placed presents under the tree. “I’m impressed Dad. It’s been a long time since you put up a tree without us nagging you. Should we thank Meara?”

  “Where’s Meara? I have food here and I’m not sure what to do with it,” said Lisa.

  “Yes, Andrew, Meara should get the credit. Lisa, Meara told me what to do,” Duncan said.

  John and Andrew sat on the family room floor and played. In the kitchen, Duncan helped Lisa with the food while Sean followed them. He patted Duncan on the back.

  “So Dad, have you popped the question yet? Why isn’t she here? I thought you two lived together?” asked Sean.

  “I haven’t asked her yet. We do live together, but she felt it would be disrespectful of your mother to be here when you arrived. Any snotty retort to that?” Duncan grimaced.

  “Hey, don’t get all snippy with me. I was just asking. Touchy, aren’t we? I hope she gets here soon, maybe you’ll be nicer.”

  “Don’t bet on it. You’re full of mischief today. Go easy on Meara or I’ll put you in a head lock. Tomorrow, when you meet the whole family, you’d better be on your best behavior.”

  “I agree with Dad. I’m sure they’re both nervous. No need to make it worse, Sean,” said Andrew, joining them in the kitchen. “We know how important this is for you, Dad. We’ll support you.”

  “Thank you, Andrew. I’m counting on you to back me up if he gets out of hand.”

  “Hey! I’m going to behave. I promise,” said Sean.

  Looking at Sean, Andrew and Duncan rolled their eyes. They didn’t believe Sean, but they didn’t have much choice. They laughed as Sean patted both of them on the back.

  “Trust me,” Sean said solemnly.

  “Is it too late to tell Santa Sean should be on the naughty list?” asked Duncan.

  The morning passed quickly. Lisa curled up on the couch with Andrew. John was entranced by an animated movie. Sean surfed the internet on his phone. Duncan was in the kitchen, putting together lunch for everyone. He wanted it ready for when Meara arrived. The doorbell rang. He smiled.

  “She’s ringing the doorbell?” asked Sean. “Seriously, Dad? Give me a break.”

  “Sean,” Andrew said, warningly.

  Duncan opened the door to find Meara standing there with an armload of food.

  “I’m gonna lose it,” she laughed, flashing him one of her brilliant smiles.

  She handed him the containers she was carrying. “Thank you. I have more in the Jeep. Hi, Andrew. Merry Christmas.”

  “Merry Christmas, Meara,” Andrew said. “I’ll come help you. We’ll be right back.”

  “Thank you, Andrew. I’d appreciate it,” Meara said.

  As they walked to the Jeep, Andrew spoke. “Meara, I want to thank you for making Dad so happy. Please don’t be nervous. We’re not going to give you a hard time. We know how much Dad cares about you. We’d like to get to know you. Sean’s a pain, but he wants Dad to be happy too. I’d like to welcome you to the family.”

  Meara’s eyes filled with tears. “Thank you, Andrew. That means a lot to me. I admit I’m nervous. I want to make a good impression. Do you have any advice?”

  “Just be yourself. Dad loves you, we will too.”

  Coming over to the Jeep, Duncan frowned when he saw her tears. “Need help?”

  “We’re good, Dad. Meara takes the old proverb ‘the way to a man's heart is through his stomach’ very seriously. Is that cheesecake? Lisa won’t let me have cheesecake.” Andrew drooled.

  “I made the cheesecake myself. I need feedback on whether it’s good or not. I’m sure I can count on you, Andrew,” Meara giggled.

  Duncan and Andrew watched Meara leave. She tripped over her feet while carrying the cheesecake. She didn’t lose her balance, but she swore quietly. As she entered the house, they could hear John’s squeals of delight. Duncan gri
nned.

  Andrew turned to Duncan. “Marry that woman.”

  “I’m planning on it if she doesn’t kill me first. I’ve never brought up the subject. I’m not sure what her reaction will be, but I’ll risk it. Thank you, Andrew.”

  “We’ll get Sean on board. I say we lock Meara and Sean together in a room. She’ll either charm him or punch him. He needs a little of both. Are you nervous about meeting her mother tomorrow?”

  “I’m more nervous about popping the question. I have most of it planned. By the time you get to Diana and Ben’s house tomorrow, I’ll either be a very happy man or I’ll be in big trouble. We’ll see.”

  Christmas Eve at Duncan’s house was going well. No one went hungry at lunchtime and everyone complemented Meara on her cooking. After lunch, she nervously hung around the kitchen until Duncan dragged her into the family room. He plopped her down on the couch and sat beside her with his arm wrapped around her shoulder. Lisa was in the living room, trying to put John down for a nap. John was too excited to see Miss Meara to sleep.

  “Meara! I can’t get him to sleep. He wants to play with you, but he needs a nap. Could you read him a story? I hate to ask, it’s your holiday too, but holding him down isn’t going to make him sleep,” said Lisa, throwing her hands in the air.

  “I’d be happy to read him a story. I brought a few new books with me, just in case,” Meara replied. “I’m not sure it’ll calm him down, but it’ll keep him entertained.”

  “Thank you! You’re a lifesaver,” said Lisa.

  Duncan followed Meara to the living room and sat on the couch. She sat down on the rug with an armload of books. John squealed and sat beside her. She opened the first book and John was mesmerized. Lisa watched from the doorway, shaking her head. Meara was a natural with children. Lisa went to get Andrew and Sean.

  Quietly, Lisa, Andrew and Sean watched Meara read to John. Duncan watched Meara with such love, even Sean couldn’t deny they loved each other. Meara brought the stories to life and had John laughing. Lisa, Andrew and Sean smiled. Meara finished a book and reached for another. John yawned, fighting sleep valiantly.

  “Miss Meara? Can I call you Grandma?” asked John.