Page 38 of Killian

“No, just curious.”

“About five hours, but it’ll be longer on the way back with the trailer and horses.”

“It must be a big one if you have seven horses.”

“Yeah, it is. The extra weight adds time. We can stop at a motel if we get too tired or late.”

“I’d rather make it home if that’s okay. We’ll have the dogs with us.”

“We can find places that allow dogs.” He shrugged. “We’ll see how it goes.”

“Alright.”

“We’ll stop for food and gas, but other than that, I want to keep going.”

“Sounds good.”

Later, after they grabbed lunch at a fast-food restaurant drive-thru, they continued along the road. It was turning into a beautiful day. He was happy Celine decided to come along with him. He wanted to spend as much time with her as she would allow.

****

Celine’s eyes drifted over the rolling hills and lush greenery as Killian drove along a winding two-lane road. The countryside was breathtaking, with wildflowers dotting the fields and scattered farmhouses in the distance. She couldn’t help but smile when she spotted a group of horses leisurely grazing in a nearby field, their tails flicking to ward off pesky flies.

As they approached a driveway, Killian slowed the truck and turned to her with a reassuring glance. “We’re here.”

Celine took a deep breath, trying to calm the anxious fluttering in her stomach. The thought of meeting his parents for the first time made her nervous.

“Relax, baby. They won’t bite,” he joked.

“That’s not funny. Nothing you say right now is funny,” Celine replied, her words laced with tension.

Killian chuckled. “I’m just trying to ease your nerves.”

“No number of jokes will make me relax. Why did I agree to come with you?”

He pulled the truck to a stop and shifted into park, turning to face her fully. “Celine, my parents are wonderful people. They won’t be anything like your ex’s parents. I promise.” He reached for her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. “Just trust me on this.”

She took a deep breath, exhaling slowly before nodding her head in agreement.

“They’ll love you. Just be yourself.” Killian winked at her as he put the truck in gear and drove up to the house.

“What a gorgeous place,” Celine said.

“I grew up here.”

“The house is perfect.” Celine stared at the beautiful white farmhouse with black shutters framing the windows. The wide porch stretched across the entire front with white rocking chairs and a swing inviting people to sit and enjoy the day.

“When Dad bought the place, the house was completely restored. There are fifty acres surrounding it. Damn, I should have told you to bring a swimsuit. There’s a pool in the back.”

“I can’t believe you didn’t tell me.”

“I didn’t even think about it. I’m sorry.”

“Are we staying here or at your house?”

“Probably at my place. There’s a lot of boxes setting around, but we can still get through the rooms.”

“I’ll be ready to sleep tonight. I’m really tired.”

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