“I’m going to be an aunt!” Paisley claps. “And promise me that you’ll give him a chance to be a husband and not just a father.”
I pull the phone away as if staring at the screen will help me make sense of her request. “We haven’t talked about that yet. I’m not sure what he’s expecting.”
“Please promise.”
“I will. As long as that’s what he wants.” Since Parker is doing me a favor, I’m not going to put demands on him. That wouldn’t be fair. “I’m so glad you’re moving back.”
“Me too.”
“And I’m glad you aren’t upset. Who would’ve thought that I’d end up marrying your little brother? That’s kind of funny.” I tilt my head back and close my eyes, picturing him down on one knee. “But he’s not so little anymore.”
“Keep me posted on wedding plans. If I can make it, I’ll be there.”
“Thanks for being such a great friend.”
“Ditto. Now you’ll be my sister-in-law. Even better.”
There are lots of upsides to this arrangement. Hopefully, Dumplin’ thinks so too.
Chapter 8
Parker
Sitting at dinner, I slip my phone out of my pocket when it buzzes. Typically, I ignore my phone until I’m finished, but when Bluebonnet isn’t next to me, I check my phone every time it makes a noise.
Bluebonnet:Your sister knows everything. So you can tell your parents if you want.
I carry my plate to the bin, then hurry out before calling her. “Hey.”
“Hi.” Her voice is soft, hesitant. “Did you get my text?”
“I did. And I’ll play it by ear as far as what I say to my parents. How did the conversation with Paisley go?”
My phone buzzes again, and I pull it away to see that Paisley is calling. She’ll have to wait.
“She’s happy for us. And glad I’m not marrying John. She never liked him.”
This is information I didn’t know. When I do talk to Paisley, I might bring it up. Maybe.
“Good. I’m glad she’s happy for us. I think my parents will be excited.”
“Are you going over there tonight?”
“Getting in my truck now.” I slide behind the wheel. My parents don’t live far from here, and I pop over to visit fairly often. Unlike some of the guys on the ranch, I had a great childhood, and my parents are awesome.
They’ll be surprised to hear that I’m marrying Bluebonnet, but they’ll support me. I am a bit concerned they’ll think I’m being rash.
“Parker, if you change your mind...” She lets the words hang a moment before continuing. “I’ll understand.”
“When I get back to the ranch, can I swing by your place?” I want to see her. But telling my parents will ease her worry, so I’ll do that first.
“If you want.”
“I’ll call when I’m on my way.” I pull over when she turns into the ranch. “I see you. Have a sec to say hi?”
She pulls to the side of the driveway, and I climb out and run over.
The door opens, and she slides out.
