Page 23 of Grady

“No, let me see what’s back there.”

Savannah heard her gasp as she walked into the room full of dollhouses. Lena came back out, smiling.

“Those are just stunning. I love dollhouses. I had one when I was a little girl, and it was my favorite toy.”

“I had one once, but at least I get to enjoy them here.”

“Every girl needs a dollhouse. I’ll just take the platter for now.”

“Alright.” Savannah rang up the platter, wrapped it in paper, stuck it inside a bag and handed her a receipt.

“I’m sure I’ll see you again. It was lovely to meet you, Vanna.”

“You too.”

“I’ll see you later, Savannah,” Grady said.

“I’ll be ready. Bye.”

Grady touched the brim of his hat, opened the door for his mother, and they walked out, and Savannah couldn’t keep the smile off her face.

Chapter Four

Grady walked alongside his mother, as they made their way to his truck. He reached for the door and opened it, gesturing for his mother to climb inside before he strode around the front of the vehicle and slid onto the leather seat.

As he started the engine, he chanced a glance at his mother and saw her staring at him with a smile on her face. He couldn’t help but let out a sigh.

“Don’t,” he warned.

She chuckled. “Don’t what?”

“Get any ideas about Savannah and me.”

“It’s too late for that, Grady. She is a truly beautiful woman. You’d be foolish not to be interested.”

“I never said I wasn’t interested, but you know my views on settling down.”

“Ah, yes. The carefree bachelor lifestyle. But I saw the way you looked at her, and the way she looked at you. And if I’m not mistaken, you mentioned seeing her again later.”

“It’s just dinner, Mom.”

“Grady, you need to think about settling down. I want grandchildren.”

“You have grandchildren. Denise has kids, remember?”

“But none from you.”

“Oh, come on, Mom. It’s only our first date.”

“So, itisa date then?”

“Damn it,” he muttered under his breath. “I fell right into that one.”

“Yes, you did,” she laughed.

Grady shook his head as a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. He had always been adamant about not wanting marriage or children, but something about Savannah made him want toget to know her better and see if there could be something between them. It was a surprising thought for someone who valued his freedom above all else.

At six-thirty, he arrived at Savannah’s home and hesitantly picked up the pink rose before getting out of his truck. His nerves were on edge.

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