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“You can’t force someone to do what you want,” Emmett said, sounding every bit like our dad.
I appreciated what he was trying to do, fill the empty space that Dad left, but I knew what he was doing. “That’s not it. We’re spending time together, getting to know who we are now. We’re healing and, hopefully, growing into something new and different. There’s never been anyone like her. She gets me in a way no one else does.”
Emmett rubbed a hand over his chest as if this conversation pained him. “None of us are artists. We can’t relate to you in that way, but that doesn’t mean you should get back together with Holly.”
My jaw tightened. “You’re my brother, and I love you, but I’m telling you, my relationship with Holly is none of your business. I confided in you against Holly’s wishes, but I won’t betray her confidence again.”
Emmett nodded. “I respect that you’re an adult now and can make your own decisions.”
“Do you? Because you were an ass earlier when Holly was here. I don’t want your disapproval pushing her away.” Our relationship was shaky enough. I didn’t need my brothers making it worse.
Emmett kept his gaze on me as if he was studying me for any signs of weakness. “I’ll stay out of it. But I’m here for you if you need me.”
“I appreciate you listening.” But I wouldn’t be heeding his advice to stay away from Holly. Nothing could keep me from her.
Emmett cleared his throat. “I came to tell you Mom wants everyone at dinner tonight.”
I raised a brow. “Does that have anything to do with me and Holly?”
His forehead creased. “I didn’t know there was a you and Holly until I got here.”
I nodded. “Fair enough.”
“We knew you bid on her, but we figured that was some protective thing. You didn’t want Teddy winning her.”
“He’s from Pine Valley Farms.” That hadn’t registered for me at the time. I didn’t want any man bidding on Holly.
“I don’t think any of us believed you’d rekindle your relationship.”
“No one else knew our history. It was devastating, and I couldn’t be there for her. I had to grieve alone. I couldn’t even talk to all of you.”
“That must have been hard.” Emmett’s expression was grim.
I nodded and straightened to my full height. “I have a chance at real happiness. Don’t ruin it.”
Emmett held up his hands. “I won’t.”
“I appreciate that. If you could run interference on the rest of the family, that would be great.”
Emmett nodded. “I owe you that much.”
“Thank you.”
Emmett turned to go, then said over his shoulder, “Be at dinner. Mom’s expecting you.”
“And if I’m working?” I asked lightly.
He gave me a disgruntled look. “I’ll haul your ass down to the main house.”
I shook my head; my chest filled with affection for my overbearing, yet irritating, family. “Nothing ever changes around here.”
“You remember that,” Emmett said as he walked out.
I’d been so engrossed in Holly that I hadn’t even heard his truck. Being with Holly was everything. I wouldn’t do anything to mess it up. I just hoped my family didn’t push her away this time.
I showered and headed to the main house. I hoped Holly would at least come back tonight, and we could spend the evening together. I wanted more time with her.
The kiln was the perfect excuse to have her in my space.
