“I was going to stop at the store tomorrow to grab a few things for our barbeque this weekend, but I’m going to let the guys know that it’s off until -”
“No,” Reese interrupted. “I’m done putting my life on hold for Russell. If everything he’s put me through taught me anything, it’s that I’m a heck of a lot stronger than I thought I was. I’ve waited long enough to meet your friends, Garrett. I want to meet them. Luke and Tanner were great, so I imagine the others will be, too. Besides, I’m not exactly on my deathbed. I have a few scrapes and bruises. Big deal. It might make for interesting conversation.”
Garrett couldn’t help the chuckle that escaped his lips. This woman really was something else. “I had a feeling you were going to say that. Okay, we’ll have the barbeque as planned. I should be home around six. Is there anything special you want me to pick up at the store?”
“No. I’m sure whatever you get will be great. Thanks.” she said.
“Not a problem.” Garrett took their empty plates to the sink. “Why don’t you head to bed. I can clean up and load the dishwasher.”
“I don’t mind helping,” Reese said, starting to stand.
“I know you don’t, but right now, the only thing I want is for you to get some rest.” He hadn’t missed the dark circles under her eyes, or the way she swayed slightly on her feet. She was beyond exhausted and he wasn’t going to keep her up a minute longer than needed.
Reese seemed to consider his words before giving in. “Okay. I guess I’ll just say goodnight.”
Garrett smiled at her easy acquiescence. “Good night, Reese. Let me know if you need anything. I don’t care if it’s the middle of the night. Just wake me up.”
Reese gave him a teary-eyed smile and nodded. “I’ll be okay. Good night.”
He watched her make her way back to the guest room and didn’t miss how she didn’t close the door. He made a mental note to leave a nightlight on in the hallway so she would be scared if she woke up in the middle of the night or came out looking for a glass of water or something.
As he loaded the dishwasher and wiped down the table, Garrett couldn’t help thinking about how far she’d come, from living in his guest house, hardly talking to him, to living in his house, having dinner with him, and sleeping in his guest room. Not to mention that kiss. He was at half-mast just thinking about it.
It was no secret that his past relationships had been complete disasters. So, bringing Reese to stay in his guest house, kissing her back when she so tenderly kissed him in the woods, and now moving her in with him - it was either the most insane thing he could ever do, or she was going to be the best thing that ever happened to him.
