Page 15 of Summer Message

“It's okay. Thank you for coming out so fast to do the work and helping me with everything. You and Stan are remarkable.” I smile at him and he smiles right back with red cheeks.

I think I embarrassed him. He walks into the house and my mom walks out to join me in the front yard.

“So, sweetheart, what are we doing out here?”

I look around. It's a big open yard.“I'm thinking about getting a dog.” I smile. “A garden in the back yard of simple veggies that I love so much. I'd like to get some boxes for flowers along the railing. I'm not sure that I'm going to paint the house yet. The paint doesn't look bad. What do you think?”

“I like those ideas. We should walk around back to mark the area you want, and see about renting a tiller so we can plant them now before it’s too late.”

“Mom, I haven't had the chance to thank you for everything. I couldn't have done any of this without you. I love you.” I hug her, crying. She's crying too.

“I'm going to miss having you so close, but this gives me a reason to get out more. I'll be coming back to see you. I'm thinking maybe Christmas we’ll come here. Your aunt and uncle are going to Pennsylvania with Randi to get to know Charli’s family. I'll talk to your brother and sister.”

I nod through the tears. My mom is making this hard on me, but I love her with my whole heart. She’s starting to really make me rethink this move, but I know this is what I need.

“I'd love that idea. We can take the kids to pick out a real Christmas tree on my land.” I have ideas circulating in my mind. “What do you want to do first?”

“Let's walk the property.” My mom grabs my hand and we walk. My mind drifts to Matthew. I wonder how his appointment went and I can't believe that I'm going on a date with him next week. I'm excited about it.

8

Matthew

Mom loved her surprise to the Grand Ole Opry. She called everyone and took so many pictures that half of them are on my phone.

I dropped her off at the airport two days ago. Work starts next week at the hospital, and then at night I'll start working on football drills and plays. The coach loved my ideas and enthusiasm. And while I’m excited about all that, it’s not the main thing on my mind.

The day has finally come. It’s my date with Kristina.

She didn't send me her photo, but told me that she'd meet me at the lane we chose. I'm looking in the mirror, making sure I look okay. I'm wearing a blue t-shirt and jeans, and sneakers instead of cowboy boots, since we’ll be wearing bowling shoes. I grab my wallet, keys, and cell phone.I whistle walking down the stairs, and find Al sitting on a chair eating Chinese food.

“Where are you going all happy?” Al asks with a mouthful.

“I'm going bowling.” I smile.

“Can I come with you?”

“No.” I walk out the door laughing when he starts asking me why he can't come with me.

I get into my truck and head out of the city. As I'm driving, I keep wiping my hands on my pants. Why am I so nervous? I've been on dates before. This is an easy, no pressure date. I found a bowling alley that was about thirty minutes from me. It's open twenty-four hours, and there are different theme nights. It should be a fun time. I pull into the parking lot and look for an open spot. Then I rush inside before the rain drenched me.

As I run into the building, I see that it's quite busy. I stand there waiting in line to get my shoes. I text Kristina to see what her shoe size is so I can get them for her.

Me: Shoe size

Kristina: Personal info don't you think? lol

Me: I was going to get your shoes for you.

“I already got them. I've been here for ten minutes.” A voice is in my ear next to me.

I turn with a smile to face one of the most beautiful women I've ever seen. She's this stunning redhead with hazel eyes and a smile that could light up the room.

“Do you know what lane we have?”

I stared at her, unable to speak. I open my mouth to say something and crickets come out. Kristina snaps her fingers in front of my face. I smile at her.

“I'm sorry. I forgot my manners. Yes, we have a lane, but I don't know the number. He couldn't assign it to me.” I swallow hard. I'm more nervous than what I thought I would be.

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