“I’m glad she and John had a nice talk. They got along alright from what you saw?”
“Yeah. At first it was a little awkward, but I went in to use the bathroom and came out and they were talking.”
“You got some good timing.” We both laughed. My dad was good at jokes sometimes.
“Things seem to be better for them now.”
“I was hoping they would reconcile after she went. Thanks again for going with her, and for being back up here. I’m glad I have you around.”
“Me, too, dad.”
I heard footsteps and turned to see Daisy coming intoview.
“Your turn.”
I headed down the hall, brushing my hand against her as I walked past, and my dad had his back turned toward us. I went into the bathroom and took a quick shower, eager to eat.
When I got back to the kitchen, the dinner table was set. I felt a sense of comfort when my dad made a meal like this. It reminded me of my mom and when she used to cook. The table had stew and bread, and the smell was amazing. As we ate, I couldn’t help but steal glances at Daisy. She was making conversation with my dad, but I had no idea what they were saying because I was so focused on the food and trying to get a peek at her.
She was a breath of fresh air.
She made me want to be around her every minute of every day.
She consumed me and filled my soul with such a fire that I couldn’t explain.
She meant more to me than anyone ever has.
As we finished our meal, my dad walked over to the sink to do the dishes. Daisy helped him clear the table, and I watched how her movements were so graceful and effortless. She made everything look good. I felt pride when I thought about how we are partners now. I wanted to be her partner for life. The day had been filled with lots of work and a crazy situation with Titan, but we had so many special moments. With Daisy, there were always positives. There were always times to look back on, laughs to have, and smiles to give.
We settled into the living room. The sun had set, and the air had cooled a little. I sat next to Daisy on the couch since my dad had gone to bed. I felt so much peace being so close to her. There was no place I would rather be. I brushed my hand against her hand, glancing up to meet her eyes.
Every day with Daisy was an adventure, and I wanted to experience that every day of my life.
Chapter Forty-Two
Daisy
In the shower, I thought about the ups and downs of the day-how I started off watching the sunrise on Domino, how poor Titan injured his leg from getting spooked by the snake, Walt making us sandwiches, Colt and I enjoying a quick break on the tire swing, getting the garden fixed up, and now supper.
When I first came back to Garrity Valley, I wasn’t excited. I didn’t want to be here. I didn’t want to do all the work that came with running a ranch. I didn’t want to get back on a horse. I didn’t want to do chores. I didn’t want to do any of it.
I had been so angry with my dad for forcing me to come here, but now, we had reconciled. I was really happy about that because even though he gets on my nerves, I still want my dad in my life. I have missed having him around.
And Colt and I started talking again and now look at us. We are in a relationship. Yes, it is a secret. Yes, we still have some things to talk about and to figure out before summer is over- which it will be very soon- but we would figure that all out together.
I scrubbed the shampoo through my hair, then let the water wash it out. I stood there, lost in my thoughts, for a few more minutes and let the water drip down my body. I got out, dried off, and slipped on some clothes. I hadn’t taken nearly as long of a shower I normally would take, but I could smell the food, and I knew Colt still needed to shower before we ate.
When I walked down the hall toward the kitchen, the aroma of the food was even stronger. I was starving, so I let Colt know he better hurry up. The smell was not helping my hunger.
“Your turn.”
Colt headed down the hall. As he passed me, he brushed his hand against mine. I closed my eyes for a second, breathing in his scent. I longed to be able to touch him and be with him openly.
“Hey, Daisy. Do you care to set the table? I’m about finished here.”
“Of course. I don’t mind.” I walked over to grab some plates from the cabinet and silverware from the drawer, taking my time to set the table. “I hope Colt hurries up. I’m ready to eat.”
“Hope you like it.”
