Chapter20
Maverick
In the truck on the way home, Belle chatted about everything we'd seen.
"We'd recommend a book to read and then host a trivia night where everyone dresses up as one of the characters in the book.The kids could answer the questions on pieces of paper and redeem them for a prize."
"That sounds fun."It wasn't something I would have enjoyed as a kid.But the ones who loved reading and being immersed in storybook worlds sure would.
"We could have crafts and themed drinks.There're so many options."Then she chewed her lip."I might need some help."
I squeezed her hand."Count me in.I'll have to read whichever book you pick because I didn't read many books when I was a kid."
"You'd read the books and help me host events?"Her voice was soft.
"If it's important to you, then it's important to me.I figured you wouldn't be able to hire much in the way of help for a while.But I'm sure Aspen would assist, and I could rope my brothers in too."
"I don't expect your family to help.If you and maybe Aspen wanted to help, that's probably all I'll need."
I gave her a look."Don't turn them down.I'm sure they'll be happy to assist in whatever you're planning."
She was quiet for a few seconds."Why would they want to help me?I'm not part of your family."
I skipped over the part where I was hoping she would be one day.It was way too soon to be thinking about that, and sooner still to be saying it out loud.I didn't want to freak her out with everything I was feeling."My family likes you, and I'm going to tell them soon that you're my girl."
"Ah.Okay."
But it didn't sound like she understood."My family expands to include everyone important to us."
"Your family is amazing."
I glanced over at her, wondering if that made her think about how her family fell short."They can be a bit much at times.They're nosey and overbearing, and sometimes you just need some room to breathe."
She rested her head back."Do you need that space from them?”
"When I was a kid, I wanted to be an only child.I was tired of my brothers.They were everywhere all the time.I thought if I could separate myself from them, it would give me some breathing room."
"That makes sense."
What I loved about tonight was how much she seemed to enjoy it.Her energy changed as soon as she realized where we were going.It was the right choice.
"How am I ever going to top this date?"
"This relationship isn't a competition.I just wanted to do something for you."
She laughed."I'm going to have to find a garden with elaborate stonework."
I chuckled."I'm always up for some inspiration."
"We're too easy, aren't we?Anyone can see what we like."Her voice was light.
"Yet no other man has taken you to a library or even a bookstore on a date, have they?"She was too surprised when she discovered our destination for the night.No one saw her like I did.
She turned slightly in her seat to face me, cradling my free hand in both of hers."How did you know that?"
"I could see it on your face.You were surprised."
She let out a breath."I don't know how you can see all of that."
