Page 48 of One Texas Night...
“Leave that, Allison. I’ll get it,” Sloan said. Soon they had the container open and the table stood on the fallen box.
“This is a beautiful piece of furniture,” Sloan said, running his hand along the satiny finish. “Jared gave this to you?”
“Probably his appreciation for the job.”
Sloan looked at both pieces. “That table and the mirror have to be worth thousands of dollars. There must have been something between you and Jared.”
She didn’t deny it. “There isn’t now. I can’t deal with his lifestyle.”
“No, you can’t, because he’s still the wild man doing wild things. Jared isn’t ready to settle down.” He started collecting the boxes. “Dad said you went to the rodeo with Jared.”
“Yes, I did. Right now, I’m seeing Phillip, so don’t start in on me about why I shouldn’t go out with Jared.”
“That’s good to hear. You’ll never regret that, Allison. Jared has never lost his wild ways, and I don’t think he will anytime soon.” He stopped and looked at her. “But you don’t look happy.”
“I’m fine. You’re being a worrywart again.”
“Okay, okay. I just want you happy.”
“I am. I’m dating Phillip. I’ll probably marry Phillip, so just relax. Phillip is my type of person. We’re happy. We’re compatible.”
Her brother studied her intently until she turned away.
“At least you and Phillip are compatible and like the same things in life.”
“I’m sure you’re right. Phillip and I are going to dinner tonight.”
“I’m glad. Tell him hello for me. Maybe we can have you both over soon. Of course, it’s chaotic with the kids running around.”
“It would be fun. I’m ready for my nieces and nephew to come for their overnight. I probably won’t even recognize Jake. He must’ve grown so much since I went to Houston. And I can’t wait to see the girls. They’re always fun to have here.”
“They love being with you. I’ll tell Leah because I’m sure she is more than ready to let them stay with you. That would be wonderful.”
“How about Friday or Saturday night?”
“Let me talk to her, and we’ll call you. Now, let’s move this table where you want to put it.”
“In the living room,” she said, taking one end while Sloan got the other. “Okay, let’s go.”
In minutes they had it positioned just right, and Sloan was getting ready to leave. He paused as if groping for words. “I—I’m glad you’re seeing Phillip. Jared isn’t the man for you.”
“Don’t worry about it, Sloan.”
“Well, I’d better run.”
She followed him to the door. “Thanks for helping me get the table and mirror out of the boxes.”
“I didn’t help you hang the mirror. Do you want me to?”
She shook her head. “Phillip will. Thanks again.”
Sloan climbed into his car, and she waved as he drove away.
She hurt, and she missed Jared, and now every time she looked at the table or the mirror, she would think of him.
Glancing at the time, she ran to get ready for her evening with Phillip.
In the past year Phillip had brought up marriage every few months. The next time he did, Allison decided she was going to accept. She couldn’t deal with a man like Jared, but Phillip would give her a family, security and, hopefully, along with compatibility would come love.
