Page 16 of Riding Home

“Thank you, Mrs.Jenkins,” Clark said sincerely.

“Please, call me Sarah,” she smiled.

As Mom stepped aside to call, Clark leaned closer.“Looks like we’re sharing a room tonight,” he whispered.

There was a sudden warmth in my cheeks.“Very funny,” I murmured.

He chuckled.“Just keeping up appearances.”

“You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?”

“Maybe a bit,” he confessed.

Uncle Bruce joined us.“So, Clark, you’re a motorcycle enthusiast?”

“Absolutely,” Clark replied.

I watched them converse, amazed at how effortlessly Clark fit into my family.

Mom returned, pleased.“Good news!Haddy has a room at the inn.”

“That’s fantastic,” I said.“Thank you.”

“Happy to help,” Mom replied.She paused.“It’s so delightful to see you happy again, Aurora.”

I felt guilty.“Thanks, Mom.”

Eventually, guests left.As Clark’s family headed out, he turned to me.“Ready to check into the inn?”

I nodded.“Yes, it’s been a long day.”

We gathered our things when Mom stopped us.“Wait a moment.”

“Is everything okay?”I asked.

She drew me close for a hug.“I’m glad you came home,” she whispered.

“I am too,” I replied.

She smiled at Clark.“Take good care of her.”

“I will,” he assured her.

Outside, we walked toward his motorcycle.

“Quite the day,” I remarked.

Clark looked at me.“I meant what I said earlier.Maybe we don’t have to pretend anymore.”

My heart skipped.“Clark...”

He held up a hand.“No pressure.Just think about it.”

I smiled.“Okay.I will.”

He handed me a helmet.“Ready for that ride?”

“Ready.”

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