Page 47 of Prairie Nights

Hayden’s heart soared with her words, “I hope so. I had some pretty great examples growing up. My dad was the best, and I know he would be so proud of Ben right now. I sometimes wish they were still here with us.”

Whitney offered him a resigned smile and gave his hand a squeeze. “They are though. I truly believe they are up there cheering you and Ben on. They’re watching Ben and Ever navigate a new marriage and parenthood and they are watching you and I fall in love.”

Hayden met her gaze, emotion brimming on the edge as he added,“My mom would have loved our love story. She was a hopeless romantic like me. I know there were times that my dad and her would struggle, but one thing that always remained strong was their deep love and devotion to one another. I believe we have that kind of love, too.”

“I agree. Marriage and life in general, is not always going to be a bed of roses, but if we stand by each other, we can overcome anything. I truly believe that,” she said. “Look at what we already have overcome.”

Hayden nodded, their journey full of obstacles and yet here they were together, having made it to the other side of each one. “I believe that too,” he agreed.

“I mean seriously, how many couples can say they have overcome a stalker, a break and enter and a court hearing?” she asked, an ironic laugh escaping her lips.

“Check, check and check,” he answered by drawing checkmarks in the air.

“And you were there supporting me through it all. Even when I needed to face it alone, I felt you were there with me, giving me the courage I needed to get through it.” she expressed, meeting his gaze, unshed tears hovering on the edge. “I’m a stronger, more confident version of myself because of you, Hayden. Thank you.”

“No thank you,” he answered, his voice cracking with emotion. “Thank you for loving me.”

* * *

“I’m just going to freshen up. Give me a few minutes.” Whitney said, excusing herself to go to the restroom.

Whitney could feel her phone vibrating from her clutch. It had been vibrating on and off throughout their dinner, but she tried to ignore it. She couldn’t ignore it anymore and was grateful Hayden hadn’t seemed to have noticed.

Entering the bathroom, she reached into her clutch for her phone. Four missed texts. Three from Ever and one from her mom.

Ever: Everything is set up and ready to go. You’re going to go look at the stars and we are going to drive up in a caravan to ambush you guys. Hayden will not suspect anything until it is happening.

Ever: Hayden is going to be so surprised! I can hardly wait! Love you!

Ever: Your mom is insisting on calling you, but I told her you’re at dinner. I told her to text you instead. I hope that’s okay!

Betty Faris: Whitney dear, sorry I tried calling. Forgot this is all a surprise, for a moment there. I just wanted to tell you that Daddy and I love you. We’re so proud of the strong woman you have become. You haven’t had an easy time, and we love and support you and Hayden. He is the one you are meant to spend your life with, and we could not be happier. See you soon!

Her phone vibrated with another text. It was her dad. “Dad never texts me,” she whispered, opening it.

Dan Faris: I love you, my girl. Hayden is the one.

Whitney felt a tear escape down her cheek, and she quickly sent out three texts:

Whitney to Ever: We’re leaving the restaurant now. Will suggest we go out to the field. I hope this works. If not, I’ll drag him there. LOL! Thank you for all your help!

Whitney to Mom: I love you too, Mom! Your support means everything to me!

Whitney to Dad: I love you too, Daddy. Always and forever!

Taking care of her needs quickly and freshening up her makeup, she rejoined Hayden at the table.

“Are you ready?” he asked, rising from the table as she approached.

“Yes, let’s go. Are we going to go for a drive?” she asked, trying to keep it casual.

“That’s the plan. How about we go to the field again and gaze up at the stars? It’s perfectly clear out there tonight.”

Yes! she internally cheered. I didn't even have to bring it up! Everything was going according to her plans.

“Sounds perfect.” She replied, letting him lead her out of the restaurant.

Internally doing a happy dance.

---