Page 32 of Beneath Southern Stars

“Honey called and said she’ll be here by six if that still works.”

He pauses and looks back at the house where Pepper is showing Steve her toys.

“We don’t have to do this, Ryan. I understand if you aren’t comfortable leaving her with a stranger. And, on a day that she’s been so talkative.”

“You trust Honey?” he asks, swinging his legs to the side and sitting up. We’re close, our knees almost touching. His hand lifts to rest on my calf.

“I do.”

“Then I trust her. I haven’t said anything to Pepper. I was planning on it earlier but then you called. Would you be okay if I did that now?”

Single dads. Who knew that was so sexy?

“I’ll head on home and you guys can talk and spend time together.”

“You don’t have to leave.”

How do I tell him I need space? Knowing we’re going on an actual date tonight has me internally freaking out but the idea of spending more time with them today may push me over the edge. I need to put a wall, a small one, around us to protect my heart after he leaves.

Standing I say, “I need to do some paperwork and get packages ready for delivery. Plus, I should confirm a few things on this week’s activities. Your gingerbread house looks great, by the way.”

We walk into the house and Pepper has Steve sitting near her while multiple stuffed animals and dolls are lined up. She appears to be holding court, explaining something to her captive audience. It’s adorable.

Steve notices me and perks up. He’s not used to as much activity as he’s experienced today. We could both use a little downtime, I suspect.

Before I cross the room to the front door, I kneel down to where Pepper is sitting. “Thank you for helping me today. I had fun.”

She smiles brightly. “Will you come back?”

I’m not sure I’ll ever tire of hearing her talk.

“I will. Don’t forget we have caroling this weekend. Are you ready to sing with me?”

Her little dimples pop as she giggles. “My daddy sings too.”

My gaze lifts to find Ryan watching us, a gentle smile on his face. “He sure does. I’ll see you later, okay?”

Pepper scrambles to her feet and wraps me in a tight hug. Her little arms are tight around my neck as I squeeze her back. My nose tickles, the telltale sign of imminent tears. I’ve grownto love this little girl; it’s going to suck to no longer have these moments with her.

Ryan clears his throat. “I’ll walk you out.”

I dip my chin, snap my finger, and click my tongue for Steve to follow. It’s only a few steps to the door but still, Ryan places his hand on my lower back. It’s light, barely touching but still my skin heats from the proximity. Before I can open the door, he reaches around me, turning the doorknob. I can feel his breath on my neck and shiver.

“I’m looking forward to tonight, Laney.”

I am in so much trouble.

Chapter Twenty

Ryan

In my mind,ice skating outdoors in Alabama regardless of the time of year is impossible to process. Now that we’re here, I stare at the scene before me in awe. About ten minutes outside of the town square is a man-made rink decorated in ribbons and bows with lights strung canopy style above. Holiday music blasts from the large speakers, almost successfully drowning out the hum of the machines keeping the ice frozen.

People of all ages are scattered on the ice, dressed in what I’m sure is winter clothing that doesn’t get much attention. Knit caps and scarves of varying colors move across the ice. Benches and tables dot the grounds surrounding the main attraction. Parents with small children sit and chat, sipping cups of what I assume is cocoa or cider. In essence, we’ve walked into a holiday movie set.

“Laney, this is so cool.”

My date sighs. “It really is. I had a vision but wasn’t sure it was possible. It helps to have a famous event planner in town. Lucy has been a force when it comes to leveling up the Jubilee.”

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