Page 87 of More Than a Fling

“That won’t be necessary,” Sue said. “We want you to have her. You’ve all been through so much because of us it’s the least we can do. With her burns she wouldn’t be able to show anymore anyway. With the trauma she has been through…well we just think its best.”

“I don’t know what to say or how to thank you, but you have made me the happiest man on the planet right about now!”

“That’s wonderful!” Annie said, clapping her hands and practically squealing with delight. “You have no idea what you have just done! Thank you.” Without thinking she threw her arms around Sue for a big hug.

“That’s settled then. We’ll take our leave, and you’ll be hearing from us soon.” They took off hauling their empty trailer, with Gabe practically in shock.

“Hear that Midnight? You get to stay!”

“Oh my God! Did that really just happen?” Annie said.

Slim walked up and said, “I see they left somethin’ behind.”

“Did you intentionally plant that seed?”

“I hain’t that powerful, but fer sure it was the right thing fer them to do.”

“I agree one hundred percent Slim! With my Irish blood I might be a wee bit superstitious, but I believe that shamrock you whittled for me has some hidden powers.”

Slim grinned, tipped his hat and left.

“He’s a mystery that one,” Annie said.

“I love that old timer.”

“He has certainly grown on me as well,” Annie said. “I have to get back to work, I just stopped by to check on you.”

“Thanks for that.”

“Call me later?” she asked.

“Yep.” Gabe leaned down for a quick kiss then she was gone.

42

“I’ll wash, you dry,” Annie said.

“You always get to wash,” Gabe said.

“You big baby, I do not.”

“Since you cooked, I guess it’s your call. Just remember, drying counts as two chores since the one wielding the dish towel has to put them away.”

“Noted,” Annie said dryly.

“I’ve got a surprise for you after we’re done here,” Gabe said.

“I hate surprises, what is it?”

“Not telling.”

“You’re just trying to get back at me.”

“Hurry up and wash, time’s a-wasting.”

Gabe put the final dish away and grabbed the keys to his truck, “Hurry up, let’s go.”

“I’m ready, I just have to find my flip flops.” Slipping on the bright pink sandals, she followed Gabe to the truck.

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