Page 22 of Everything I Want

On the way home Oliver falls asleep before we even leave the parking lot. It’s nice to have some alone time with Lorelei though. We talk a little more about Oliver’s dad and I’m glad that he has Colton in his life now. I can’t believe he signed over his rights to Oliver, then showed up at the school to take Oliver with him.

“I’d be happy to be there for him too. I know he has Preston and Colton, but if he ever needs some guy time and the other two are busy, I’ll be there.” I place my hand on Lorelei’s thigh.

“Thank you for that. I know he loves to hang out with all three of you. He’s already asking me if you’re coming to Christmas Eve dinner with us. You and your boys are welcome to come. I know your ex is here with them but if they want to come they are absolutely welcome.”

I'm so glad that Lorelei is including my boys. I know their Mom is here, but it's nice that she's offering for them to join us.

I bet they’ll be rooting for Lorelei even more after I tell them.

December 20th

Lorelei

Scott:I have a surprise for you tonight, dress warm and I hope you like a horse drawn sleigh! Be ready at 4:00. It’s a sunset ride.

I awake to my daily text from Scott and am more excited for today’s date than any other date he has planned.

I’ve never been on a horse drawn sleigh before. Ever. I’m thrilled to have a first with Scott. Even more thrilled to get to go on a sleigh ride.

Andrew had a terrible fear of horses, so riding behind one for an hour was panic inducing and not exactly holiday spirit inducing.

As excited as I am, I’m volunteering at the senior center this morning so I hop out of bed and get ready quickly. Scott won’t be there today since he has to drive to the city to the corporate offices for meetings.

I bundle up and open the door, thankful for a future son in law who cleans the snow off my car each time it snows on his way to work. And automatic car starters. I think I would be in Florida already if it weren’t for these two!

When I get to the senior center I throw a wave to Mabel who is reading a book over by the fire. I tell her I’ll be over in a minute and head in to place my coat in the employee room.

I grab two hot chocolates and join Mabel by the fire. She looks up at me and reaches out for the mug.

“Where's that man candy of yours?” She winks.

“He’s in the city today for meetings. Trying to get us a bigger event budget for the senior prom.”

“Oh right, who do you think will ask an old bird like me?” She laughs.

“I think we all know just who.” I lean my head over my shoulder to Phil. “We all know he’s been spotted more than once sneaking into your room.”

She shrugs, laughing. These two may think they’re sneaky but the nurses literally get paid to know what is going on.

“Enough about that. What is lover boy taking you to do today?” She leans forward like she’s ready for a juicy secret.

I smile, “He’s taking me on my first ever sleigh ride. At sunset.”

“Oh girl, he’s got it bad. I hope he plans to snuggle right up close and closer when you get home,” she winks at me.

“I’ll be sure to let you know,” I wink back.

We get pulled into a Christmas movie on Hallmark for a while before I get pulled away to help with lunch.

I leave the center around two in the afternoon to get home and get ready for our sleigh ride.

“Hey, Mom!” Lacey says when I walk through the door.

“Hey, honey! I didn’t know you’d be home.” I pull her in for a hug.

“I'm not really. Oliver wanted a couple Christmas books to read with Colton so we’re just making a pit stop. I thought you’d be out with Scott.”

“Oh, honey, you’ll never guess where he’s taking me tonight.” I clap my hands together in front of me, excitement laces my words.

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