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I felt my entire body tense. I knew they all got along, but as much as I wanted my dad in my life, I wanted Bastian more.
“I like him. He really understands you.”
I practically sagged in relief. “Are you giving me your blessing?”
He chuckled. “Yeah, I guess I am.”
“Can I ask you something?”
“Anything.”
“Would you mind if I called you Dad?”
I heard the hitch in his breathing and when he did finally answer me, his voice had thickened with emotion. “I would be honored.”
Chapter Twenty
A few days later, Bastian headed off for his apprenticeship and saying good-bye to him was not easy. Trying desperately to hold it together, I watched as he loaded his bag into the trunk.
“Please be careful and please wait until Friday morning to come back. You could fall asleep at the wheel if you try to come back on Thursday night.”
He walked around the car to stand not just in front of me, but pressing up against me, so he could frame my face with his hands. “Keep your phone close, I'll be texting you a lot.”
I wrapped my arms around his waist as I attempted a smile, but I was too saddened by his departure to pull one off.
“I'll be back before you know it.” Hepromised.
“I know,I'm just going to miss you.”
He pressed a kiss to the top of my head before lifting my lips to his kiss: one that effectively turned my bones to goo.
“I'll see you on Friday.” Hesaid before he brushed another kiss on my lips and allowed it to linger a moment. He stepped back and I moved to the side so he could climb into the car. He started up Baby, but his eyes never left mine.
“I love you, Lark.”
“I love you.”
He pulled down the drive, and I was surprised at how hard it was to watch him go even knowing he would be back at the end of the week. I returned to the house, locking the door, and headed to the bedroom with Reaper at my heels. Saffron had dropped him off yesterday knowing that I would be alone starting today. Climbing into bed, I pulled the covers up and willed myself to sleep.
Sometime later, I awoke to the sound of my phone. When I saw who was calling, I smiled. “HelloPoppy.”
“Hi,Lark. Just wanted to call you to see how you're doing with Bastian gone.”
“I'm miserable.”
“Well, it's only for a few days.”
“I know. I'm being silly. How are things with you? How's Caden?”
The wistfulness of her response was answer enough. “He's wonderful. I'm falling hard for him.”
“And I'm sure that feeling is completely mutual.” I said.
“It is.”
“How are your parents?” I inquired.
“They're good. They miss you.”
