Chapter Eleven
Even when he askedher to come to his house, Ryder hadn’t expected things to go as well with Morgan as they did. She agreed to find a therapist for her own well-being, not because she wanted to please him. He told her he’d go with her anytime she wanted, especially to attend couple’s therapy. He wanted them to work.
He wanted a relationship for the first time in his life, and he wanted his efforts to not be in vain.
Surprising them both, Ryder asked Morgan if she’d like to spend the night after they fooled around on the couch. His kitchen wasn't perfect yet, but he had food in the refrigerator and a working stove. Though he didn't count it as their first date, he wondered if Morgan would.
“This doesn’t count,” he mumbled as she kissed him in front of the window.
“As what?”
“As a date.”
Rising on her toes, she wrapped her arms around the back of his neck. “Why not? There’s dinner, kissing, and then I’m staying the night.”
“I don't want you to think this is all you’re worth.”
“What does that even mean? There's nothing wrong with you cooking for me equaling a date, Ryder.”
“Maybe not once we’re more established as a couple, but you still deserve a real first date.”
“Where does one go for a real date around here, anyway?” Morgan ran her hands through his hair, and he had trouble concentrating on the answer.
“There’s a barbecue place further out on this little finger of land belonging to Abbott. It’s by the interstate.”
Morgan’s mouth twisted in such a way that he was sure she was trying not to laugh.
“What?”
“It’s such a small town. I love it.”
“I love it here too. It was a good change for me.” The timer went off, and Ryder reluctantly pulled out of Morgan’s arms. The sunlight slanted through the window in just the perfect way to highlight chestnut streaks in her dark hair. “You’re gorgeous,” he whispered.
“Oh, Ryder.” Face softening, she moved closer to crush her lithe body to his.
He hugged her back, swinging her around so he could walk to the stove. “Sorry, I don't want to burn dinner.”
Her giggle was sweet in his ears. “You might be the cutest guy I’ve ever met.”
“I sure hope so, if you’re gonna date me.”
She released him so he could plate their food, and they sat in front of the kitchen window to eat. There was an exact moment Ryder knew they’d work out, and it wasn't because of anything in particular. It was simply because they flowed. There weren't any sharp edges now that they were being honest. Conversation came naturally, their interests were varied but in the same vein. Morgan wanted a happy, solid life, she just hadn't had the opportunity before she moved in with her cousin. Ryder had worked his entire teen and young adult years toward what he felt was a happy and solid life. He’d finally achieved it, and he had someone to share it with as a bonus.
“This is probably the best day of my life so far.”
At his pronouncement, Morgan dropped her fork. “Why on earth would it be?”
“Because of you. Because of us.” He gestured around the room. “I have what I’ve wanted for a very long time.”
“And, here I am hoping not to mess things up by existing.”
Shaking his head, Ryder said, “Never.”
“I get it, when you say I need therapy. My self-doubts are trying to ruin a great day.”
“I want you to be happy, Morgan. Comfortable in your skin. I want you to know you don't mess things up, you make me happy just by existing.”
She took a deep breath and let it out. “It scares me a bit that you have such confidence in me.”
