But even in my mind, I need to shift focus.
I love Ellie. I want the best for her. And I believe Dallas can give her that.
My stomach squeezes. My eyes mist as I realize what’s happening.
What I can’t let happen. Not now.
I can’t fall for Dallas Thorne.
No matter how easy he makes it. No matter how right this feels.
Dallas sets his fork down. “All right, let’s see what you painted in Rose’s class today.”
“It’s still drying by the door, I’ll get it.” Ellie races out.
Dallas and I start clearing the table when my phone rings again.
This time, he sees the screen. “Any reason you’re dodging your mother’s calls?”
I purse my lips. “Guessing she got the digital invite to the wedding.”
He frowns. “Those went out a few days ago.”
I flick my gaze to his. “Not hers.”
Understanding reaches his eyes. “I’m sorry, Willow. Look, if you want, we can take the call together after Ellie goes to bed. We don’t have to lie to her.”
I swallow, my heart plummeting a little, because this is still a lie.
“That’s sweet of you to offer but—”
“Offer? Willow, we’re in this together. You stood by me with my family and in front of half the town. However much you want to tell her, I’ll do it with you.”
I scoff because this is one conversation hedoesn’tneed to hear. “I’ll fill you in after.”
He gives me a soft nod, letting me know he’ll be here for me when I need him—however I need him.
Ellie returns with her dandelion painting.
I’d like to use my dandelion wish to avoid this phone call. Instead, I smile at them both and step out to the covered back porch, where my conversation with my mother can be muffled by the sound of the rain.
“Before you start, no, I’m not pregnant,” I tell her before she has a chance to greet me.
“Of course you’re not. You’ve been there three weeks, what do you take me for?”
I release a breath. “OK. So, you’re calling with your RSVP?” I hold my breath.
“I’m calling to tell you I’mproudof you.” Her tone too dry and flat to match the word.
“You are?” I ask warily, barely phrasing it as a question. For a second, I let myself believe she might be proud of my selfless act of kindness. Helping a good man—who has more than enough potential to be a good father—keep his daughter.
Then I remember who I’m talking to.
“Well, it’s pretty obvious, dear. You saw an opportunity to collect your inheritance early and took it. That’s my girl.”
“It’s not obvious, because it isn’t true,” I snap. “This is all for Ellie.”
“Is someone listening to our conversation?”
