AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“I…I guess it’s possible.”
“Did you know he called Kenneth and set up everything? Right down to strict instructions for us to be on our best behavior. That doesn’t sound like a man who is ‘just enjoying’ time with you. It sounds like a man who has fallen in love. I guess the question is, do you feel the same?” she asked.
Love?I knew eventually I’d need to face the fact that my feelings for Phillip were stronger than I’d ever had with anyone else. “I care very much about him, Shanda. But the truth is, we live such different lives. I’m not sure I could fit in his life. Not long term, at least.”
Shanda rolled her eyes. “Did you see where I live? Kenneth lived in Boston full time before moving to live with me in Hope Valley. I have a cow pasture next door and I don’t even have a streetlight or traffic light nearby. And look at us. Happily married.”
That they were. I could see how much they loved each other. And Kenneth seemed to fit so well in her world. But how does she manage to fit in his?
I already knew I couldn’t stand being waited on hand and foot. It might sound ridiculous, but I enjoy doing things for myself. Samantha would be in heaven if she never had to cook, clean, or do laundry for herself again. I’d feel smothered and as though I’d given up control. Just seeing Phillip’s kitchen told me he didn’t do any of those things for himself.
“Maybe you’re the exception to the rule,” I said.
Shanda rolled her eyes and changed the subject. “What did you think of Anne?”
“She’s so nice. She and Andrew also seemed like a great couple,” I said.
“Did you know her real name is Trixie and she owns a strip club?” Shanda asked.
My mouth dropped. “You’re joking, right?” Shanda shook her head. “There’s a long story behind that, and she will have to tell you all about it. Just another example of a Heart falling for someone who didn’t think they’d fit in the family.”
“Are you trying to convince me it might work?” I asked.
“I am telling you that it most definitely can. It has nothing to do with status, money, or location. It’s all about how you feel. So, I ask you again, do you love him?” Shanda asked.
My heart pounded as my lips formed the words and they were given life. “Yes, I’m in love with Phillip.”
Shanda smiled brightly and said, “Now don’t you feel better?”
It was as though she knew I needed to be pushed into saying what I fought so hard to keep buried. “I really thought I’d be saying it to Phillip first,” I sighed.
Shanda shrugged. “I have a feeling it will be easier now.”
“I’m not ready to tell him,” I admitted.
“You don’t have to. Just continue being yourself. The words will come at the right time. But I’m glad that at least you know now how you feel.”
And so do you.“Shanda, can you please promise me something?” She nodded. “Keep this between us. Don’t even tell Kenneth. I want Phillip to be the next person to know how I feel.”
She crossed her heart with her right hand. “You’ve got my word. Now, how about we order some coffee and talk about the next time you’re coming for a glass blowing class.”
I smiled and relaxed. It was a much smoother conversation from that point on. But no matter what we spoke about, I was only half listening. All I could think about was Phillip and the fact that I loved him. And he might love me, too.
