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Austin laughed, turning to run back to the truck to get the forgotten hat. When he caught up with Pops, he was just entering the house.
“We’re home!” Pops called as he stopped to tug off his boots.
Mama came down the hall, smiling. “How’d it go?”
“Just two more left, darlin’, then we’re home free!” Pops did a little shimmy dance and pulled her into his arms.
“Well, look at you, Mr. Spry.” Mama laughed and nuzzled into him. “Well, maybe you’ll be good enough to come to the picnic after church on Sunday. Maybe the boys will come, too.” She glanced at Austin.
“Not that one,” Pops said, pulling back. “That one’s packing up to go win his girl.”
“Charly?” Mama asked, her hands wringing in front of her.
“Yeah,” Austin said, narrowing his eyes at Pops.
“Don’t give me that eye, son. We both know it’s time.” Pops wrapped his arm around Mama. “You don’t meet a good woman but once in a life, if you’re lucky. So, you better snatch her up while you still can.”
“But what about her residency?” Mama asked.
“We’ll figure it out, Mama…that is, if she gives me another chance,” he said. “But if she does, don’t worry, I won’t ask her to give up her dream.”
“What about yours?” she asked, her eyes tearing up.
“Well, I’m about to accomplish mine. As far as what happens next, I figure I’ll let the Big Guy show me that.” He kissed her on the cheek and clapped Pops on the shoulder before passing them and going down the hall to his room to pack.
“I overheard,” Adam said, running out into the hall. “There’s a flight leaving early tomorrow morning, headed to Reno.”
Austin froze and stood blinking at his little brother.
“What?” Adam shrugged. “It’s time you won the girl, bro. Just don’t be late for Nationals, deal?”
Austin took his hand in a tight squeeze. “Deal, brother. Thank you.”
After packing his bag, he pulled out his phone and smiled as he reread Charlotte’s text. He took a deep breath, asked for guidance, and typed back: Funny thing. I was thinking of you at that same moment. Was driving Pops back from his appt so I couldn’t respond.
Really? she responded. How is Pops?
Really. And good. Two more treatments and he’s done.
Great news!
Austin tapped his finger, trying to figure out how to say what was needed. Can I call you?
Lunch is just about over…Tonight?
I’ve got an eartaly flight in the morning. He thought about the fact that he wouldn’t even know where to go to find her, though he would love to surprise her.
Oh, well, another time then…
What are your plans for this weekend?
Heading back to Camp Hope. I love it there.
Austin smiled, glad that she had Cody and Josie to spend time with…and those kids. It would also be the perfect place to meet her. That’s great! So glad you have found a place that you love.
Thanks. Gotta go, sorry
No sorry. Thank you. He started typing that he’d see her tomorrow and deleted that. Miss you.
