Now it was Friday, and he was supposed to go to her house for burgers tomorrow. He focused on her as they stretched. “You sure it’s okay for me to drop by tomorrow? I know your mom wanted me to come, but I don’t want to get in the way. Especially with your sister there and all.”
“My sister lives in town, so we see each other all the time. It’s fine.” She offered him a smile, but it wasn’t completely convincing.
Since it was clearly all Emma intended to say on the subject, he changed it slightly. “Did you say your sister is older?”
“Yes, by two years. Chrissy and Wyatt—that’s her husband—got married two years ago. They’re expecting a baby boy next month.” This time, when she smiled, it reached her eyes. “They run Joyful Hope Stables.”
Marty’s eyebrows rose. His physical therapist had mentioned the place a year ago, and he’d heard nothing but good things about it since. “Really? That’s amazing.”
“Yeah, it is. They do a lot of good there for a lot of people.” She nodded slowly. “They’re great and will be happy to meet you tomorrow. Wyatt can grill some mean burgers, too.”
“I’d like to bring something to contribute. Any suggestions?” When she didn’t respond right away, he tried again. “What’s your favorite dessert?”
Emma shot him a wary look. “Rainbow sherbet.”
“That’s random. I like it, too. Do you prefer pineapple or traditional flavors?”
“Pineapple, actually.” She stood then and shook out her legs. “But seriously, don’t go out of your way.”
He said nothing because he had every intention of tracking down some rainbow sherbet to bring with him, complete with pineapple in the mix, if he had to drive into San Antonio to get it. “Well, please let your mom know I’ll bring some contribution to dessert.”
Maybe he was a glutton for punishment, but he looked forward to Saturday and interacting with Emma outside of work.
* * *
Emma metMarty at the front door once he arrived at the Laughlin ladies’ house. She introduced him to Wyatt and Chrissy who welcomed him with handshakes and smiles. After visiting with them and Mrs. Laughlin, he followed Wyatt to the back porch where the grill smoked.
The porch was small, but it had character. Potted plants and flowers sat along the edge or hung from the roof that covered it. Marty wondered whether it was Mrs. Laughlin or Emma who had the green thumb.
Wyatt finished flipping burgers and closed the grill again. “Thanks again for helping Sarah with the car. I appreciate that.” He glanced at the back door to make sure the ladies were still inside. “I wish she’d let me help replace it.”
“Can I ask you something?”
Wyatt seemed intrigued. He tilted his head slightly. “Shoot.”
“I’d originally wondered if Emma’s stubborn personality was specifically for my benefit. Is it safe to assume it’s more of a family trait?”
Wyatt laughed out loud at that. “Oh, you have no idea. But believe me when I say it can be a positive thing as well. As long as you’re on their good side, that is.”
“And there lies the problem.” The words slipped out before Marty had a chance to stop them.
“Oh? Do you not get along with Emma?” Humor laced the taller man’s voice causing Marty to wonder what she might have said to her family.
Marty hesitated. “Let’s just say we’ve had our differences. A lot of them. And it’s left a lasting impression.”
Wyatt seemed to size him up for several moments. Apparently, the guy wasn’t going to offer up any words of wisdom. Not that Marty had expected it. They barely knew each other. Maybe Wyatt was being protective of Emma, something Marty could respect.
Finally, Wyatt waved the spatula he was holding at the house. “I saw you brought rainbow sherbet.”
“I did.” He’d gone to three different places to locate it, too.
“And a healthy dose of determination.” Wyatt chuckled. “Sounds like you’re off to a good start.” He opened the grill again. “The Laughlin gals have been through a lot, relied on each other to survive, and aren’t good about admitting that it’s sometimes not enough.” He tipped his head toward the house. “Don’t discount the importance of emotional support.” Wyatt picked the platter up and handed it to Marty. “Come on, these are ready. I don’t know about you, but I’m starving.”
Inside, they all fixed their plates buffet style before taking seats at the small table in the dining room. Marty found himself between Emma and Mrs. Laughlin with little elbow room.
The lack of space didn’t matter, though, especially once he bit into his burger. Emma was right, Wyatt could grill a mean one. “This is amazing, man.”
“I’m glad you like it.” Wyatt grinned and took a bite of his own.
