Page 63 of Follow My Heart

I sighed because you could never tell with Stacy. “It’s the thought that counts.”

“I can make her a card too.” Faith smiled.

I ruffled her hair. “I love your handmade cards.”

She beamed up at me. “I know you do.”

“All that matters is what’s inside your heart when you give the gift.”

“I want her to like it,” Faith said softly.

“Then that’s enough.” If Stacy was rude to her, then I’d talk to her. I was done standing by while Stacy treated those around her as lacking.

Faith smiled. “Let’s get it.”

I wanted to see her excited, not worried about what her mother would think about something. The lady at the store carefully wrapped the pottery in tissue paper, then tied the bag closed with a red-and-green ribbon.

It was a nice gift. If Stacy didn’t appreciate it, then she wasn’t the woman I thought I’d married. I wanted to be with someone who was genuinely kind, who appreciated other’s thoughtful gestures.

“Should we get something for Violet too?”

“I haven’t even thought about it.” It was only Thanksgiving weekend, and it was early still. I was confident I’d think of something she’d like.

Faith gave me a look. “Don’t wait until the last second.”

“We’ll have to think about it.” Because Violet was special. She wouldn’t demand spa gift cards or vacations with her girlfriends. She enjoyed the simple things: a bouquet of flowers, a shared meal. Before I forgot, I sent her a text.

You want to come with us tonight to see the lights at Monroe farm?

Your family won’t mind?

It’s the only farm with lights. They’ll understand.

I’m in.

I’ll need to take Faith home afterward.

You want company for the trip?

My fingers hovered over the keyboard. As much as I would enjoy her company, it was too soon to surprise my ex with a girlfriend.

I’d love to spend more time with you, but I need to talk to Stacy about you first.

Did she talk to you about Phil?

I huffed out a laugh because she hadn’t.

No, but I conduct myself differently.

I can respect that. Don’t worry about it.

I’ll pick you up at 6:30.

See you then.

I took Faith to lunch, then over to my dad’s house to spend some time with him. We played card games and helped him work on a puzzle he’d recently started. It was nice to have this time with them.

When Faith went to the bathroom, Dad asked, “How are things going?”

---