Page 81 of Yuletide Acres

“You’re an amazing man.”

“Made more amazing by this woman in front of me.”

Her face contorts as the sobs overtake her. “I almost lost them, Dylan. It’s safer if I go. I know you don’t understand.”

“Screw safe. I’ve been safe the last ten years. I want you. All the chaos and emotions and passion. Don’t take that from me.”

Her hand reaches up, stroking along my beard, and I lean into her caress. “I’ll always be with you. But I can’t stay in Yuletide. What happened at the river isn’t the only reason. Trust me when I say this is best for everyone.”

My anger breaks free, bubbling to the surface. “Trust me, when I say that it’s not best for anyone. If you knew you were leaving, why did you get so close to my daughter? To me? Why bother? To get even with me for leaving you a decade ago? Is that it?”

Her jaw quivers as a fresh wave of tears streams down her face. She doesn’t need any additional stress, but I’m in full-fledged panic mode at her admission. I grasp her upper arms, forcing her to meet my gaze. “Ouch, Dylan.”

I immediately retract my hands as she gingerly pats her right arm. “I’m sorry, Poppy. I didn’t mean to hurt you.” I run my hand over my head, wracking my brain for answers. “Let me speak with the doctor about getting you released.” I hold up my hand, stopping her argument. “No matter your final decision, you’re spending the night at my house. Save your arguments.”

I burst through the curtain, marching toward my mother, who is conversing with the local doctor. “When will Poppy be discharged?” I bark, earning wide-eyed glances from my mother and the young resident.

“In just about twenty minutes. Nothing is broken, and there’s no evidence of a concussion. Just keep an eye on her. My biggest concern now is pneumonia from the cold water. I’ll go make up the paperwork now.” With a final nod, he walks away, leaving my mother to glare at me.

“I know you’re upset, Dylan, but that’s no excuse for a lack of manners.”

“She’s leaving.”

“I know. She’s getting discharged.”

“No. She’s leaving Yuletide Acres. She just told me.”

Her eyes widen in shock. “What? I thought you two were—”

“Me, too, Mom.”

She lays her hand on my arm. “It’s been a really trying day. Likely she’s just being reactive. I know Poppy blames herself for us falling in the river. It’s ridiculous, but she thinks if she hadn’t invited us, we would have been safe. A woman’s brain works in a myriad of ways, examining every option. Not all of them good. Let’s get her home and rested. I’m sure she’s going to change her mind. Until then, check your temper and show her some compassion. She damn near died today.”

I nod, feeling a wave of guilt wash over me. “I got so angry at the idea of her leaving us. Leaving me.”

“Then give her all the reasons she should stay.”

* * *

She’s still quiet, but at least Poppy seems calmer after some soup and a hot bath. Now, she’s dozing on the couch by the fire. I’m not sure if it’s the painkillers or the weight of the day, but she’s out like a light.

I pull my mother and daughter into the kitchen. It’s time for a serious family chat. Plopping Marissa onto the counter, I pull a box from my jacket pocket.

“What’s that, Daddy?”

“Marissa, do you like Poppy?”

“I love her.”

“Would you like her to be around all the time?”

My daughter nods, clutching her stuffed bear. “Will Paddington and Mr. Whiskers be around, too?”

I nod, forcing a smile. “Absolutely. Can’t have one without the other.”

“What are you planning?” my mother inquires, her gaze volleying between me and the jewelry box.

I flip open the box, chuckling at my daughter’s gasp. “It’s pretty, right?”

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