“Good thinking.”
“On that subject, at least. On others I’m not doing so hot.” He followed her to the truck while mulling over the complications he’d added to what used to be a sweet little scheme.
While she walked around the tailgate, he climbed behind the wheel, started the engine and cranked up the heat. She wasted no time hopping in and buckling up. He shifted into reverse andThunder did the rest, digging through the snow until they were headed back out the way they’d come.
Lani glanced at him. “Sounds like our plans might have to change.”
“They might, except no matter what, I’ve obligated you to make a pound cake.”
“Fine with me. When did you figure out that we couldn’t use the other excuse?”
“Late in the game, I’m ashamed to say. Not until I handed over the manuscripts and mom said she’d spend the day reading.”
“I realized it when she wanted me to give her the scoop on your book while you guys were outside. It would have been the perfect time to mention I had suggestions. And by doing that I’d taint her reading experience, even if I didn’t tell her what they were.”
“You were way ahead of me on that score. Thanks for jumping on board with the pound cake idea.”
“I thought it was ingenious, assuming Granny wants to.”
“I’m pretty sure she will. She keeps trying to get me to make one, but much as I love her, I don’t wanna. I hope you’re at least mildly interested.”
“I’m totally interested. I wasn’t kidding about giving it to my folks. They can buy whatever they want which makes finding the right gift a challenge.”
“Glad to hear it’s not a lame idea.” He took a steadying breath. “And I’ll figure out a way we can spend some time together tonight, no matter what.”
“Hey, this is your big moment. Your family wants to be with you and celebrate this achievement. Seems to me that should be the priority.”
“Logically, you’re right.” He glanced at her. “But I’m on fire, Lani-lou. Burning like I’ve never burned before. Logic doesn’t stand a chance.”
CHAPTER TWENTY
The heat in Rance’s eyes made Lani squirm in her seat. If only he could pull over and do something about it. Wishful thinking. He had to go to work and she’d have questions from her folks the minute she walked through the door.
Or not. As her parents’ turnoff came into view, their yellow truck pulled onto the main ranch road.
Rance beeped a greeting and her dad did the same. Her mom gave a wave.
“Looks like you’ll have the house to yourself.”
“It does. I’m not sure where they’re going. They didn’t have any specific plans for today.”
“Wish I could stay and steal a few kisses.”
“It would be more than a few and you know it.”
“Yeah, it would.” He made the turn. “Just as well I can’t stay. We don’t know where they’re going or when they’ll be back.”
Lani’s phone chimed. “We’re about to find out.” She quickly read the text from her mom. “They offer their congrats on the book. They’re heading to the barn so Buck can give them lessons in driving the sleigh. They want to take a turn on Christmas Eve.”
“Yeah? That’s awesome.”
“After that they’re going into town to meet with the committee for the event. The chair called this morning.”
“There’s a committee?”
“Evidently.”
“Clearly the idea’s taken on a life of its own. Shows you how little attention I’ve paid to anything but the book. That’s cool, though, about your folks getting involved.”
