Page 40 of Line Change

“I like her, Bash.” She grins at Sutton before focusing on me. “See, even more of a reason for you not to move back.” I widen my eyes. We’re really going there now? She addresses Sutton, “Has he told you his crazy idea to move back here and be a farmer?” She lets out a bark of laughter.

“Mum.”

“We’ve talked about it,” Sutton says.

“You seem like a smart woman, Sutton. What do you think?” Mum asks.

Sutton shifts in my lap, fiddling with her thumb ring.

“Mum,” I warn.

“I think he should do whatever is going to make him happiest. I’m sure it’s a tough spot to be in,” Sutton says, peeking back at me before focusing on my mum.

“It is. That’s why I think it’s time to sell.”

I rear back. What? I blink a few times, wondering if I misheard her. She’s got to be kidding right now. I mean, I know she’s thinking about it because Harriet told me, but still. “No.”

“Bash …”

“Mum, you can’t—”

“So, when are you two coming to visit?” Mum asks.

Whiplash much? I tighten my hold on Sutton. “I don’t know.”

“Maybe we can have another video chat so your sisters can meet Sutton? I know they’d like that,” Mum says.

“Maybe. If the timing works out. But we need to talk about you wanting to sell the farm.”

She waves away my comment, and I frown. “I’ll text you when I know Charlotte is going to be in town, and I’ll make sure Harriet can stop by too. I’m sure they’ll both jump at the chance to meet the woman who their big brother has fallen for.”

“Mum,” I scold. “Back to the farm …”

“There’s nothing to discuss. I’ve got to run. Love you. Speak soon,” Mum says before ending the call.

I sigh as Sutton gets off my lap. I let her go even though I don’t want to.

“That went well,” she says.

I tug at the back of my neck. “I sure hope so. Bloody hell, I’m sorry she brought up the whole me moving home. She shouldn’t have.” I shake my head. “And meeting my sisters. I know that wasn’t part of our arrangement. Then she throws in the idea of selling. She knew I wouldn’t argue too much with you on the phone.”

Sutton holds up her hand. “I don’t mind meeting your sisters. It’s not a big deal, and besides, you’re marrying me, it’s the least I can do for you. As for her asking me what she did, she’s worried about you.”

“I know she is. I probably should have just told her my idea for hiring someone. I just didn’t want to bring it up without my sister’s support. I feel like it’s a good compromise, though.”

“It is,” she says before yawning. “I think I’m going to go take a nap.”

“Want to have dinner together tonight? That way we can talk through any things we need to finalize for the wedding.”

“Sure.”

“I was going to make myself roasted vegetables and chicken with wild rice on the side. I can cook you whatever you’d like. There’s more of that pasta dish you liked in the freezer.”

“Chicken and vegetables are fine.” I nod. “I’m going to go lie down.” She points over her shoulder.

“Have a good nap.”

She disappears down the hallway, and then there’s a thunk as her bedroom door closes. Bloody hell. I roughly shove a hand through my hair. My phone dings with a message from my mum.