Page 23 of Everything I Want

Lacey laughs at my childlike excitement. “Where?”

“A sleigh ride!” I exclaim.

“Mom, that’s amazing. I remember how much you used to want to go on one.”

Oliver bounds down the stairs before we can talk more, running into me for a hug. He shows me all the books that he is going to read with Colton. Then they’re off again leaving me to get ready for my date.

I open the closet door and know exactly what I want to wear. I pull out my favorite jeans, and a deep emerald turtleneck sweater that is cashmere and so soft. I slide my jeans on, and slip into the sweater. I revel in the softness before checking my outfit in the mirror. I smile back at my reflection and send the girls a photo, knowing they’ll approve.

Me: What do you think for a sleigh ride?

Addy: Hot mama! I love that!

Lacey: I told you last year that was the perfect sweater for you! I knew you would love it.

Scarlett: Ooh, can I borrow that sweater? You look great, Mom.

I chuckle at the girls’ enthusiasm about my outfit. I knew they would approve.

Scott knocks on the door at exactly four o’clock. I open the door and take in his rugged look of tight jeans and the signature flannel he wears.

“Wow, you look stunning.” He stares at me, taking my body in the same as I did him.

“Thank you, come in.” I step back so he can come in while I put on my boots and coat. He hands my scarf, hat and mittens for me to bring with me to the sleigh ride.

"No meddling daughters today?"

I shake my head, "Not today."

He places a kiss on my forehead, and pulls me in close. “You smell amazing,” he mutters.

I wrap my arms tighter around him. "What time do we need to be there?"

He moans, "Too soon, we need to leave now or we might not leave."

He pulls back and places a hand on the small of my back to head out to the truck. I lock up my house, and take his lead.

“Where are we going?” I ask once we are settled in the car.

“My buddy Dave has a farm just outside town. He offers private sleigh rides on his farm,” he places his hand palm up on my lap, and I lace my fingers with his.

I ask him about his meeting and we make small talk to fill the time. I’m happy to hear he was able to get some more funding for the senior prom we’re hosting. The residents are going to love it.

After a few minutes, he pulls down a long driveway leading to the most picturesque farm. I’ve passed this farm for years and always admired the beauty of it in every season.

When we get closer to the barn, I see a sleigh with two beautiful horses hooked up. It’s everything I ever imagined it would be.

Scott parks next to the barn, and we both hop out. He goes to the back of the truck and pulls out blankets, a thermos, and a small container that I recognize from The Bar.

He goes and greets his friend, “Hey, Dave! It’s great to see you. Thank you so much for getting me in your busy schedule. I really appreciate it. It’s Lorelei’s first sleigh ride,” He nods his head in my direction with his hands full.

“Hi, Lorelei, I hope you’re excited. The views around the farm are beautiful, you’re going to really enjoy it.” I think the smile on my face gives me away.

“I’m really happy to be here, I’ve admired your farm for a long time,” I say.

His face fills with pride and a smile spreads across his face. He leads us over to the sleigh and Scott helps me up before handing me all the supplies.

The sleigh starts with a jump and I snuggle up close to Scott to stay warm under the blankets together.

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