“If she wants to go see her dad, then I think that’s a fine idea.”
“Really? She’ll be happy to hear that.”
“You go along with her and make sure everything’s good.Hopefully they can keep building their relationship back. I know how much John has missed her. You know, he once mentioned the idea of selling his ranch?”
“What?”
“He said it was small anyway and he wasn’t sure that Daisy would ever come back after being gone for so many years. He didn’t see any reason to keep it.”
“But he loves that place.”
“That’s what I told him. He decided to keep it and held out hope that she would eventually come back. I know he’s glad she’s here. It’ll be a nice surprise for the two of you to go over there. You two don’t worry about rushing back here, either. Let those two have their time together. They both need it.”
“Thanks, dad. I’ll go let Daisy know and we’ll head out.”
I walked back to the house to tell her the good news. Daisy was still inside, standing in the kitchen, sipping away at some coffee. I stopped in my tracks for a second, taking in how the morning glow was casting a shadow on her face. She is breath-taking. I cleared my throat, getting her attention.
“Oh. What did your dad say?”
“He said we were good to go.”
“What did you tell him?”
“I let him know that you had talked about going to see your dad and help him out a bit, but that you were still a little apprehensive about going since you two just reconciled. I told him you asked me to go with you because of that.”
“And he said that is okay?”
“He did. He said that since we did so much yesterday, besides tending to the animals, there’s not much to do today. He’s going to work in the garden some today is all.”
“So, when do we leave?”
“As soon as I get this bag packed for our picnic.”
She smiled softly, taking the last sip of her coffee. I grabbed some chips from the cabinet and made two sandwiches to go. I threw in two waters as well. This was going to be a good day. I could feel it.
I looked back up and saw Daisy leaning against the counter. She had the prettiest smirk on her face, and it made my heart skip a beat. She could make the simplest things feel like the biggest things. She was amazing in every way, and I was lucky enough to call her mine, even if it was in secret for now.
Chapter Forty-Four
Daisy
As Colt drove down the familiar winding road to my dad’s place, I stared out the window, taking in the beautiful scenery. Excitement and nerves filled me, but I was eager to see my dad again. The sun was fully out now, and a warm glow was cast over the land. I couldn’t help but smile. The family ranch wasn’t that big-just enough room for a couple of horses and a few cattle-but it was special. It brought a sense of comfort and coziness. I was glad to be back, and I was ready to continue rebuilding the relationship between my dad and me. It had been a long time coming.
As Colt pulled into the driveway, I could feel my heart racing. I glanced at Colt, who was adjusting his cowboy hat. He looked so calm, and it was almost a little infuriating, but I loved that he could be the calm to my storm any day.
“You ready for this, darlin’?”
“Yes.”
“Don’t forget. You have a nice, romantic picnic waiting for you once we finish the work.” He smiled at me, and it only fueled my excitement. This was going to be a good day; I just knew it.
I stepped out of the truck, taking in a deep breath. I could smell the wildflowers and grass, reminding me of so many memories. I had a lot of fond memories here growing up, and I was glad that my mind wandered to those instead of the really bad time.
I looked around to see my dad, but he was nowhere to be found. As I walked closer to the front door, I felt anticipation. Neither me, Colt, nor Walt had let my dad know about the two of us coming here, and I was hoping he would be happy to see us.
“There’s my girl!” I looked up and saw my dad swinging the front door open, a wide grin lighting up his face.
He pulled me into a warm hug. There was so much strength in his arms, and I was instantly reminded of how much I missed this connection. Colt was standing back, giving us a moment. My dad quickly turned to him, though, extending his hand.
