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"Yeah. How do I break through his trust issues and convince him that this is what I want?"
She thinks about it as she rocks in her chair, staring out into the distance. "Most of it is on him. They're his issues. As muchas we'd like to, we can't go in and change people's minds and hearts. That's his stuff that he needs to work on."
"Yeah, I get that."
"For your part, I think you're going to have to be patient. Give him time. Andshowhim. You can talk until you're blue in the face, but words don't count for shit. Especially with Wilby. He's been duped that way before. You just being here says more than words ever can. But it might not be easy, and it might not be fast."
"That doesn't bother me at all, Polly. I'm here for the long run. And you're right, words are bullshit."
I take another sip of tea, rocking back and forth, and wonder how the hell I can show Wilby how much I want this, how much I want to create a life here with him.
No answers mysteriously materialize, but my resolve strengthens.
Iwillfind a way.
We've almost finished the pitcher of iced tea when Wilby pulls up in the Land Rover, slowing down when he gets nearer the house so that we don't get blanketed in dirt.
"I think I left a light on inside," Polly says, getting to her feet.
It's three in the afternoon, full daylight.
"Smooth," I reply with a grin.
She winks and gives my shoulder a press as she goes inside.
Wilby reaches the bottom step and takes off his cowboy ha—Akubra. "Hey," he says, stepping onto the porch.
"Hey."
He sits down in Polly's chair. "Why did Gran just piss off like that?"
"She left a light on inside."
Wilby eyes the empty pitcher. "Have you guys been day drinking margaritas…without me?"
I smile. "No. We had iced tea and scones. I, uh, saved you one."
I push my plate toward him. He tilts his head, as if he's confused. "Yousavedfood? For me?"
"See, I have this thing." I lean over and whisper conspiratorially. "I kind of love you."
"You should get that checked out," he replies before stuffing the entire scone in his mouth.
"I should."
I can't take my eyes off him as he battles with the too-big scone in his mouth. He finally finishes it and leans back in the rocking chair.
"We have to talk," he starts, then stops. "Correction. I have to talk."
"Okay… But take your time. There's no rush." Our eyes meet. "I'm not going anywhere."
He holds my gaze for a long time, but I'm not going to break away first. It's not a big deal in the scheme of things, I get that, but I want him to see that I'm serious. That I'm not afraid. That I am in this for the long haul.
"I'm sorry about my reaction last night."
"You have nothing to apologize for. Feelings are feelings, and you have every right to have them."
"I know. But I don't want to sabotage this thing we have. That's not fair to you."
