Page 198 of Beautiful Collide

Since when?

Something tells me this is a new renovation…

One that happened just for us.

As the nightwinds down and the sun dips lower in the sky, I can’t help but stare at Molly.

She seems so much more relaxed than she did back in Redville.

It’s almost like the whole reporter debacle from earlier today never happened.

She’s laughing at one of my dad’s corny dad jokes, many about the farm, which I bet she doesn’t even understand, but she’s a good spirit about it all.

My mom busies herself clearing the table, swatting away any attempts to help.

“Hudson, grab the death by chocolate pie from the counter.” My mom motions to the kitchen.

“Yes, Mom.” I push back from the table and catch Molly’s eye. She’s already helping stack plates despite my mom’s protests.

She fits in perfectly.

It’s like she’s known them all for years.

I grab the pie, then set it down in front of her.

Mom starts serving everyone a slice.

Molly takes a seat at the table. “That’s . . . um. Too much.” Molly’s eyes are wide.

The piece takes up half the plate. Mom does love to cut the slices very generously.

“Trust me when I say it’s not enough. It’s the best dessert you’ll ever have,” I promise as Molly takes a small bite.

Her eyes widen. “This is incredible.”

“See, Hudson? At least your wife appreciates my baking.” My mom beams.

“I just called it the best pie she’d ever eat, Mom. Jeez.” I raise my hands in surrender. “Get off my case.”

We all eat in silence, other than the groan of appreciation that slips out of my dad’s mouth.

He’s really annoying when he eats Mom’s pies, but I don’t call him out since Molly is here.

After dessert, Molly stands to help clear the plates again.

“Stop helping,” Mom says. “Hudson, take Molly outside.”

I glance at Molly. “I’d like that.” She smiles.

“Come on.” I grab her hand and lead her toward the back door. “We’ll start with the short tour of the property.”

The gravel crunches under our feet as we cross the driveway.

Molly looks around, her gaze lingering on the horizon, where the sky glows in shades of orange and pink.

“It’s beautiful,” she murmurs.

“This is the best time of day,” I admit. “It’s peaceful.”

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