OWEN:
We still on for 6:45 at Mom’s barn tonight?
DAISY:
See you there.
OWEN:
Don’t forget to dress for a ride.
“What is it? You look confused.”
“Nothing.”
“You sure? You blushed and then squinted your eyes like you do when you’re trying to figure something out?”
“It’s just Owen. He made me something for my birthday, and I have to pick it up at his mom’s for some reason. And since I’m there, he wants to go for a ride.”
Mia watches me, examining my features, looking for clues. Or maybe she’s waiting for more of an explanation. When I don’t give her what she wants, a small smile tugs at the corner of her lips.
“What?”
“I don’t know. You tell me.”
“There’s nothing to tell.”
“Okay.” Her smile grows along with her disbelief.
She isn’t falling for my lies.
I’m not even sure I believe the lies I continue to tell myself.
I pick at the grass trying to come up with a subject change, but she beats me to it.
“So, I have an idea.”
“Hmm...”
“How about you, me, and Ryan go to Oktoberfest? We haven’t been in a decade. I mentioned it to Angus, and he said he and Knox would watch Sawyer. I think it’s time I trust them and get away for a night. What do ya think?”
“Um, yes, please! Have you talked to Ryan yet?”
“Not yet. I wanted to make sure it worked for you first. I know it’s too soon, but I’m going to ask Charlie too. I don’t want her to think we left her out.”
“Good idea. She likely already feels like she’s missing out. But as much as I like the idea, it’s a hella long drive and we’ll be drinking our fair share of beer. Isn’t it a bit late to find a place to stay?”
“I know. I’ll work on it, though. Even if we have to spend a fortune on a hotel room in Portland and a ride share to get us there, we’ll make it work.”
My excitement is building, as flashes of our September trips to Mount Angel before the three of us left for college each fall rush through my memory bank.
“Yes! Just us girls. No boys allowed.”
“Boys always find you, Daisy. You’re like a magnet that draws them in.”
“Nope. Not interested. A weekend with the girls is all I’m hoping for.”
“I’ll remind you of that.”
