Page 129 of One Wild Chance

He’s not awkward about approaching the bed, just steps forward and hands her the bouquet.

“It’s nice to see you again,” he says, sitting by her bedside like I usually do.

She takes the wildflowers, her eyes closing for just a second as she breathes them in.

“These are my favorites,” she says.

I shoot him a look. Same thing, every time.

“Let me guess,” Jaxon says, playing along. “Most women like roses?”

“Yes,” she answers, not picking up on where he’s heard that before. “But I never did. I’ve always been partial to wildflowers.”

He gives me a knowing smile.

I settle on the end of Mom’s bed. “Jaxon used to be a hockey player, remember?”

Her gaze moves between the two of us, like she’s working something out. “Are you…dating?”

His eyes drift to me. “Yes, ma’am. She’s very special to me.”

Her mouth softens before she turns back to me. “He’s so handsome.”

I clamp my lips together to keep from laughing.

“Thank you,” Jaxon says, going along with it. “I wanted to ask you for something today.”

“What is it?”

“Your blessing.” He leans forward and looks directly at Mom. “I’d like to marry Summer, if it’s all right with you.”

My eyes widen. “Jaxon.”

Mom points at him, delighted, like she’s just caught on to a secret. “You’re going to marry him?”

“I—” I glance at Jaxon for help. He smiles at me and waits. “Well…” I pause. “He hasn’t exactly asked me yet.”

“I’m asking your mother first,” Jaxon says, nodding toward her. “That’s how it’s supposed to go.”

Her smile spreads into a pleased grin. “Smart man. I like him.”

“Mom,” I say, my cheeks burning. “He’s waiting on your answer.”

She doesn’t look at me. Just keeps her eyes on Jaxon. “Then make sure you’re always there for her.” She pauses, fingering the bouquet in her hands. “As long as you can do that, I think you’ll be very happy.”

“I will,” he says firmly. “You have my word.”

She turns toward me, and something sparks behind her gaze. “I remember you now. My little Wildflower.”

My breath catches. “Yes, Mom. It’s me.”

Thin fingers find my cheek. “You’re so beautiful. My greatest gift.”

I blink back tears. “I love you, Mom.”

She pulls me into her frail body, and I let her hold me. For a few seconds, I’m somebody’s daughter again, being held by her mother. I don’t know how long she’ll remember me, so I just let myself stay as long as it lasts.

When I finally glance up, Jaxon’s standing near the door, just watching and giving us room. There’s something in his face that lets me know he understands what he just witnessed—a mother recognizing her daughter, however briefly. He lets me have the moment without trying to rush me out of it.