Page 57 of Mended Hearts

“I’ll definitely keep that in mind.”

“Please do.” She giggles.

“Has there been any wedding talk yet?”

“No,” she answers, disappointment evident.

“Well, we all know it’s going to happen,” I say reassuringly.

“I know. I’m just ready to fully be his. I don’t need to get all gussied up. I’d be more than okay with just walking to the courthouse and having it done.”

“Impatient much?” I tease.

“Very.” She snorts. “And don’t get me wrong, I’m very blessed with what I have. I know I sound like a spoiled brat.”

“No, you don’t. I get it. You have the man, and even though what you guys have is concrete, you want to make it official. There’s nothing wrong with that.”

“Thank you for that. I’m glad someone gets me. Not like I have anyone else to talk to about it, but still. I really wish you lived here.” There’s a longing in her voice.

“Who knows what the future holds.” I shrug, accepting the uncertainty of it all.

“Man, my arms feel like jello,” Lynsie says, flapping her arms up and down.

“Yeah,” I say tiredly. “Painting is for the birds.”

Lynsie and I walk out onto the porch to see the guys hammered and laughing.

“Glad to see you guys bonding,” Lynsie deadpans, walking up to Dax, and wraps her arm around his side.

“It’s the Bud that binds us,” Dax says, doubling over with laughter.

“I got nothing,” Dustin throws out, laughing.

Lynsie and I look at each other, shaking our heads and giggling at these two.

“I think it’s time to get you home,” she says, patting Dax on the back.

“Aw,” he whines.

I cover my mouth to stifle a giggle.

“Yeah, what he said,” Dustin chimes in. “Don’t be a fun hater, Lyns.”

“I’m just being a regret avoider,” she corrects him, smirking. “He needs to get to sleep. He’ll be thanking me tomorrow when he isn’t spending all day feeling like shit.”

“Hmm, good point,” Dustin replies thoughtfully before tilting his head back and finishing off his beer. “I never sleep.”

“Bye, guys,” Lynsie says, pulling Dax behind her.

“Bye, guys,” Dax says, mocking her.

“Bye, thanks for your help… Lynsie.”

“Hey! I helped!” Dax yells back.

I just shake my head as I sit down near Dustin. “Did y’all accomplish anything?” I smack his thigh with the back of my hand.

“Well, that depends on who you’re asking and what it’s pertaining to.”

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