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We didn’t talk as we took turns in the bathroom, and I breathed a sigh of relief when I settled into his arms. It felt nice to be in his arms. I almost felt like I could depend on him.
That was something I avoided for most of my life. It was easier to assume that no one would be there for me. That groups of friends had already been formed, people had large families to fall back on, and there was no space for me. It was easier that way.
But when Heath’s breathing evened out, I stole a glance at his face. He was so peaceful in sleep. I wanted to let him in, and that was the scariest thought of all.
The next few weeks, Heath was busy getting Sebastian’s cabin finished so he could move in. The whole family was involved in figuring out what furniture they needed. Lori was in charge of stocking the fridge for their arrival.
I found myself caught up in the energy. There was an urgency to get them moved in before the main Christmas tree-cutting season began the week of Thanksgiving.
At times, I worried I should have gone home. There was no reason for me to stay. But everyone was so grateful I was there. I worked with Ireland and my marketing person on the farm’s logo and the flyers for the movie night. In the afternoons, I spent time making more content for my business, talking with my assistants, and answering clients’ questions.
I kept waiting for Heath or another member of his family to ask when I was leaving. But they never did.
I told my assistants I was dealing with some family stuff, and they didn’t ask any follow-up questions. It wasn’t a great feeling, even if it was what I was used to. I’d kept people at arm’s length, so it was to be expected.
Heath took me out on a real date in Annapolis. We went to the ice skating rink, ate burgers and shakes at a local diner, and wandered the streets of Annapolis to see the holiday lights. It was the perfect night, and it satisfied something deep in my soul.
I could easily see how my life would be here. I just wasn’t sure if Heath felt the same way.
On the night of the first community movie night, Ireland was a bundle of nerves. She’d kept me busy going over details all day. I barely had time to see Heath.
His brothers helped us assemble the tables and the projector. We picked up the food and kept it warm.
“Who should be at the gate?” I asked Ireland.
“One of the boys does that. They tell people where to park.” There was a flat entrance fee for each car, and then people could pay for food.
When it was close to the time to open the gate, Heath arrived at the main house with his truck. He brought a bouquet of flowers over to me.
“What’s this?” The only flowers I ever received were ones I ordered myself.
He handed the orange, red, and yellow blooms to me. “They’re for you. For all your hard work.”
I took them and smelled the petals. “Thank you.”
“Are you ready to greet people?”
“Is that what we should do?” I asked him and looked over at Ireland, who shrugged.
“This is your baby. I think you two are the most passionate about it. Let’s be honest, you don’t want the guests talking to one of us. We’ll scare them off.”
“Isn’t that what happens during tree season?” I asked, genuinely curious about the way things operated during the busy season.
“It’s probably why we’re not as profitable,” I teased as Emmett said, “Hey now. Don’t blame that shit on me.”
“One of us should stay here, and one can go by the gate,” Ireland said.
“I’ll do the gate.” This was Ireland’s thing, and she’d be more comfortable by the main event.
I walked with Heath to the front gate. There was already a line of cars. “I wasn’t expecting this kind of turnout.”
“It looks the same as opening day for tree cutting.” Even Heath seemed excited.
“You’re joking?” I asked him.
“Nope,” he said with a grin as he opened the gate and waved the first car through. “Just welcome them to the farm and direct them to the parking area by the barn where Emmett is standing. He’ll direct them to a spot.”
I wiped my sweaty hands on my pants. I spoke in front of a camera, but I never saw the people who were listening. I could pretend no one was there even as I answered questions left in the comments. It never felt as real as this did.
