Ice and Fire novel Chapter 448

It was evening, and Joe was excitedly waiting with his parents for his piano instructor, Amy, to get to the house for his first lesson.

The silence in the room was broken by the muffled sound of a cell phone ringing, coming from Jackson's pocket. He pulled it out and saw that it was Derek calling.

"Who's calling?" asked Cherry.

"It's Derek, I wonder what's up, " replied Jackson casually.

"You should answer it, he might have some news to share, " suggested Cherry.

Jackson clicked to accept the call.

"Hey Derek, what's up?"

"Jackson, are you in the bar? I need discuss something with you, " there was an urgency in Derek's voice.

"Right now, I'm at home; if it can't wait, you can always come to my house." Offered Jackson.

There was silence for a moment before Jackson heard Derek's answer, "Okay, I'll be over soon."

"Good, see you then, " Jackson ended the call.

"Does Derek have important news to talk to you about?" Cherry asked.

Wondering the same thing, Jackson told her, "I'm not sure what he wants to discuss. He's on his way over to talk to me."

In an animated tone, Joe added, "Awesome! This is Uncle Derek's lucky day, 'cause, now, he gets to meet my delightful piano teacher too!"

Cherry smiled, she was thrilled to see her son in such good spirits. Placing a hand, lightly, on Joe's head, she urged him, "You need to focus on the piano session while your tutor is here. Please, don't go trying to show off, got it?"

"Yes Mommy. I will pay attention and practice hard, and become really good, " Joe puffed out his chest with pride as he promised.

Amy followed the directions Cherry had given her, but, then the road met with another, and although she knew the house was nearby only, she didn't know which.

At the intersection, Amy glanced around and observed lights on at a nearby dwelling, and then she saw several other houses on that street with lights on, too. However, those residences weren't as notable as the first one Amy observed. Amy wondered if Jackson's social station was such that this distinguished home might be his.

Supposing her guess was right, Amy headed to the first house.

As Amy reached the front door, a car suddenly pulled into the driveway and stopped alongside her.

As Derek stepped out of the car, a graceful, elegant lady standing at the front door of Jackson's home, caught his eye.

At the same time, Amy peeked over to Derek as he got out of the car, and discerned that the gentleman she saw was cute, poised and walked with self-confidence; all of which added up to an appeal that was difficult to resist.

While he approached the door, Derek glanced from the door, wondering, 'This is somewhat odd, I wonder who she is. Why is she standing in front of Jackson's house?'

Now, it was Amy who was bowled over. Her face twisted in shock and embarrassment. Her lips parted slightly as her mouth formed a small 'o', her eyes widened, while her cheeks turned hot and red. She wanted to explain who she was, but while she composed herself, Derek beat her to it.

Derek grinned as he explained, "Are you joking with me? I just met her at the front door. and we came in together. This is Joe's piano teacher."

After he finished explaining, Derek strolled away, going deeper into the house towards the dining room.

Lily surmised this was the piano teacher that Cherry had invited, and belatedly greeted Amy, "Are you, Miss Amy? I apologize for my assumptions just now. I hope you will forgive me."

"Oh, don't worry about it. Is Cherry home?" Amy's sweet smile lit her face as she graciously said.

"Yes, please, come in. Mrs. Cherry's expecting you." Lily extended her arm toward the home's interior as she invited Amy to go with her.

Derek walked into the dining room, seconds ahead of Amy.

When Joe saw Derek, he cried out enthusiastically, "Uncle Derek!" as he jumped to his feet.

"Well, hello Joe!" Derek reached out, scooping Joe into his arms and hugging him.

Movement behind Derek caught Cherry's eye, she rushed over when she saw it was Amy, greeting her warmly, "Amy, I'm so glad you made it!"

"Hello, Cherry, thanks for having me over. I'm thrilled I could be here, too, " Amy smiled as she said cordially.