“I might just take you up on that,” he said. “I want you to know I echo everything Ally said. When you and Thea split the first time, it was hard on her. I knew you always had her heart. I’m glad the two of you found your way back to each other. Sometimes, the best things come to those who wait.”
“Isn’t that the truth,” I agreed.
Thea called for her dad to check out the backyard. I stayed in the kitchen to load the dishwasher. Rich joined me a few minutes later. “Can we talk?” he asked.
I braced myself for more threats. It was expected. I knew how much they all loved Thea. “Sure, what’s up?”
“If I don’t apologize for threatening you, Thea is never going to talk to me again. So, I’m sorry.”
“You had good reason. It’s cool. I’m glad you were looking out for her.”
“Anyway, thanks for what you did for her and my dad,” he said. “This situation seems to be working out. I trust you’re smart enough not to dump her again. If you do, you’re on your own. I’ll make damn sure she never looks your way again.”
“I get it.”
“Good, then welcome to the family,” he said. “I think it’ll be nice to have you for a brother-in-law.”
It was about the best acceptance I could hope for. They forgave me. Now, it was up to me not to screw it up again.