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My father juts his chin at Belle and her smitten uncle. “If you haven’t already decided, those two will have you moving to Knox Creek tomorrow.”
I haven’t made an official decision, but Garrett makes it a point to ask me at least once a day. It’s becoming a habit, which we’re equally fond of. “My lease ends in September.”
He nudges me. “Good answer.”
“So,” Joy scoots in beside me. “All is going well and according to the fairytale script?”
“Your brother makes an adequate Prince Charming.”
“Always knew he had it in him.”
That’s when I notice Garrett has handed off Belle to his mother and pulled my dad to a secluded patch several feet away. Their heads are tipped close together. There’s an uncharacteristic tension radiating from his stiff posture. If that’s not enough, he’s fidgeting. The combination sets off an alarm in my brain.
“What do you think they’re talking about?”
“The weather,” Joy recites automatically.
I balk. “Huh?”
She laughs in return. “How am I supposed to know?”
“Seems suspicious.”
“Or proactive.”
Before I can question her further, Garrett breaks from the huddle and struts toward me. I narrow my eyes at his cocky demeanor. “What was that about?”
“Just a little chat.”
I study his expression. Glee might as well be leaking from his pores. “Are you plotting?”
“A man is allowed to have his secrets, soulmate.” He ducks down to rub my nose with his. “You’ll like this one.”
“I almost forgot.” After reaching into my purse, I pass him the button that matches mine. “Our original number was taken. I settled for sixty-nine.”
“What a coincidence.” He digs in his pocket and whips out a pin. “Here’s that fifty-three that brought us together.”
I attach both numbers to my strap, much like I did months ago. A soft breeze ruffles my hair. Idle chatter swirls from all directions. Everything feels as it’s meant to be.
“How unexpected.” I breathe.
“The buttons?” He glances at where they gleam on his collar.
“Our family gathering in general.”
Garrett loops an arm around my waist. “But it’s very on-brand for us.”
“Wouldn’t have it any other way.” I release an exhale that reveals my contented mood. “This is really nice, bartender.”
“Worth the bumps in the road?” He mimics hitting several potholes on our trip to happily ever after.
“Those detours were necessary to renovate your manwhore-ish habits.”
“Good thing you were up to the task.” He wags his brows.
“Are you up for something else?”
Garrett sweeps stray hair off my forehead. “For you? Always. Just name it, soulmate.”
