Page 90 of Ghost

I was surprised that he’d made the connection. “Yes, Sir. She’s fine. She’s got a little bit of a stomach ache, and she’s at home. I’m away from there right now. Actually, I’m at George’s diner. I got your number from him.”

“Is everything okay?” he asked.

“Yes, Sir. Everything’s just fine. I uhhm. Well, I’m calling for your permission.”

“My permission?” He chuckled. “She already told us she rides on that motorcycle of yours. I guess I’ll tell you I’m pleased that California’s a state that requires the use of helmets.”

“Not for that, Sir. For something else.”

“She speaks highly of you, Porter. What can I help you with?”

“Sir, I’d like to marry your daughter. Not right away, but whenever she’s comfortable with it. Maybe a year down the road, maybe two. Heck, it might be six months. Whatever she, and you, Sir, are comfortable with. But I’d like your permission to ask her to marry me. I guess I’d like to propose to her. You know, give her a ring.”

The phone fell silent for a moment.

“Hold on a moment, will you, Porter?”

“Yes, Sir.”

I heard muffled voices for a moment, and then he returned.

“Porter?”

“Yes, Sir?”

“Anna and I would be thrilled if you’d like to ask Abby to marry you. When are you planning on doing it?”

“In the next few days, I think. I need to get a ring and everything.”

“Well, you certainly have our blessing on the matter. Don’t rush. Things like this take time and planning.”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Porter?”

“Yes, Sir?”

“We’re pleased with her decision to see you. I’d like for you to know that. She speaks highly of you, as does George. In fact, George said you’re one of the finest men he’s ever had the opportunity to meet, and he’s met a few.”

I was shocked that he had talked to George about me, but it didn’t last long. If I had a daughter a special as Abby, I’d want to know everything abou the man who was seeing her as well.

“Thank you, Sir.”

“When the two of you get time, you need to come see us. Connecticut’s only a few hours by plane.”

I laughed to myself. “Actually, we’re planning a trip up there this fall.”

“Well, we look forward to meeting you. Keep us posted on the engagement, will you?”

“Yes, Sir. I will.”

“I’m sure Abby will call her mother as soon as she settles down.”

“I’m sure you’re right.”

“Is there anything else?”

“No, Sir.”