Page 49 of Follow My Heart

Violet’s lips twitched as if she knew she’d been manipulated into going but wasn’t that upset about it. “Good night, Ryder.”

I wanted to stay on the phone with Violet, but I sensed that she needed time to think about our next step. I’d already put myself out there, telling her what I wanted. Now she had to decide if she was on board or not.

“Night.”

When I let go of the worries about what everyone would think, I was excited about spending the day with Faith and Violet. Fuck society’s expectations. No one knew my particular situation, and I deserved to be happy.

The next morning, I made omelets and toast for us while I talked to Faith about our options for the day. “We could see the botanical gardens. It’s decorated with holiday stuff and has running trains. And would be indoors so we wouldn’t have to worry about the cold.”

“Okay.”

Just okay? I could never tell what her reaction would be. Lately, “I’m bored” and “that’s stupid” were her frequent go-to response. “Then maybe check out the White House or the monuments.”

Faith cut her omelet. “Will it be just us?”

“I invited Violet because it was her idea.” I could have patted myself on the back for that explanation.

Her eyes lit up. “Is she coming then?”

“Let me double-check.” She was supposed to be thinking about our relationship and what she wanted. What if she decided that I had too much baggage? That she wasn’t willing to take a risk with me? I’d have to be okay with it, but I couldn’t stop the disappointment that settled in my gut.

Are you still up for sightseeing today?

When she didn’t answer right away, I added:

Faith wants you to come.

I wasn’t using my daughter to convince her. It had seemed like Faith wanted her there.

I’ll be there.

I fist bumped in the air, and when I lifted my gaze, I caught Faith watching me. “Did you just fist bump?”

I slowly lowered my hand. “Is that not cool anymore?”

Faith rolled her eyes. “Does it mean that Violet’s coming with us?”

“Are you sure you don’t mind if she joins us?”

Faith pursed her lips. “I like Violet.”

I braced my hands on the counter. “I do too.”

“Are you going to date her like Mom’s seeing Phil?” Faith asked slowly.

“I’m not going to lie. I like her, but I didn’t intend to start dating again so soon. I didn’t think I’d be ready, and I’m still not sure I am. I just— I enjoyed spending time with her.” I liked how I felt when I was with her. I didn’t feel like a failure. She gave me hope that maybe I could still have a family, just maybe a different version that I’d thought. “If you’re not okay with this, then I’ll tell her it’ll just be us today.”

Faith sighed.

“I know you’d rather I be with your mother.”

“I didn’t like it when she told me you were separated and that she was dating Phil.”

I hated that I wasn’t there for that conversation. One more thing that Stacy handled because I wasn’t physically present. But I hadn’t realized the thing with Phil had happened so soon. “That quick, huh?”

“I was surprised she was dating someone, but I’ve had time to get used to you being separated. I know you’re going to date at some point, and I like Violet.”

“If at any point you change your mind, tell me. I can handle it. You’re more important to me than dating.”

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