The sweet moment swiftly takes a turn as Mom asks, “So, can I expect grandbabies in the near future?”
“What?”
“I wouldn’t mind having some grandkids running around the yard. Maybe they’d be the excuse I need to finally convince your mom we should get some horses. Think of all the fun they’d have here learning to ride horseback, milking the goats, and chasing the chickens around.”
“I thought you’d be on my side, Dad!”
“I’m always on your side but you can’t tell me it wouldn’t be fun to have tiny little versions of you running around.”
There’s a quick flash in my mind of a little boy and a little girl, with my freckles coating their cheeks and Rhett’s beautiful green eyes. They’re covered in dirt and squealing with glee as Rhett chases the little girl around and my dad shows the little boy how to be gentle with the goats. The image is like a lightning bolt to the heart. I’ve never wanted something so badly. I’ve known for a little while now that I have very strong feelings for Rhett. I’ve known he’s an incredible person and that I want to explore life with him, but it’s just now hitting me that I don’t just like him. IloveRhett, and despite not being on an official date yet, I know I want to build a life with him here in Roots.
“Oh my god.”
“What’s wrong, honey?”
“I love Rhett.”
“I told you.” My mom’s face is filled with pure glee. “Go tell him. We’re done here. I’ll get plenty of time with you now that you’re staying.” Mom begins shooing me toward the door. “In fact, I can start making some calls and looking at job postings the second you leave. We are going to find you something. Don’t you worry. For now, just focus on telling that man how much you care for him.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
I take one step out the door and then promptly swivel back around to give her one more hug. I pull away and lean in toward my dad, giving him one too. “Thank you, both.”
ChapterForty-Nine
Rhett
“I thinkthat’s all I need from you for the day. You said you had plans tonight, right? You should head out,” Lauren says as she brushes her hands off.
“Are you sure?”
She nods, and I don’t bother arguing with her. I need all the time I can get to prepare for my date with Olivia tonight.
When I get into my truck, and pull out my phone to play some music, I can’t keep my mind from drifting back to the look of defeat on Olivia’s face when she told me no one else wanted her, that she was stuck in tax. I know she’s open to giving things another shot, but I want to help her. I never want to see that look on her face again.
An idea pops into my head, and before putting the truck in drive, I type a quick message to Olivia.
Me
How does 6 sound to meet for our date? I’m going to take care of something too. I will pick you up. Wear whatever you want. I don’t do super fancy and you outshine anyone in anything you wear anyway xo
Olivia
You’re so full of crap!
But yeah 6 works
I’m not full of crap. You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. Inside and out
You must want something
Just you
Also come hungry
Noted
Gotta go. See you at 6!
