Page 47 of More Than Falling in Love

“Mason is a lucky kid to have you as a dad.And I get why you are reluctant to risk your heart with Poppy.But at least think about it.”

“I might.”Giving a noncommittal answer works just as well in uncomfortable conversation as it does with parenting.

The topic is dropped until we get back to the barn.As I’m leaving, Parker taps my arm.“If you are happy being just friends, ignore my advice.And I get that the distance is a big deal.”

“Thanks.”I stop just inside the door.“What I told you…”

“Is nobody else’s business.And what I said about aches and pain…” He shrugs.

I give a nod.“Catch ya later.”

Chapter 17

Poppy

The last two weeks at work have been busier than usual, and I video chat from my office more than from my apartment.

Today is no different.I cover a yawn, hoping my second wind kicks in soon.Reading time is in an hour, and I’m hoping to be done with my to-do list by then.

Sarah points at the screen.“Looking at these numbers, I’d say your strategy is definitely working.Show me what you have planned.”

Discussing content will take up the next few hours.I’ll have to be creative when I sneak away for my regular call.

My phone buzzes, and Kent’s name pops up on the screen.I swipe, checking the time.“Hey.”

How did I not realize I was answering a video chat request?Kent, in all his muscular glory—but thankfully with a shirt on—fills the screen.“Sorry to interrupt your work.Just wanted to let you know we’re skipping reading time tonight.He’s sick.”

“Oh, no.”I try to ignore Sarah sitting next to me.“What’s wrong?”

“Tummy bug.He should be back to his spunky self in a day or two.I’m just hoping I don’t get it because, between you and me, I don’t handle being sick all that well.I’m a terrible patient.”His smile is tired but genuine.

“Why does that not surprise me?”I walk away from my desk, angling the phone for a tiny bit of privacy.“I’m still at work, but later, I’ll call and check on him.”

He nods.“Have you eaten?”

That’s probably why I’m agitated and feel like I’m dragging.“I’ll order something.”

“You do that.I’ll chat with you later.”

The video ends, and I feel Sarah staring at me.

“That’s who you’ve been talking to every night?”

Keeping Kent and Mason a secret from her has only put off the inevitable questions.And maybe it will help to vent a little about the situation.

“That’s Kent.He’s a single dad with an adorable kid who calls me for reading time every night.”I pinch my lips, willing myself not to get emotional.“Mason lost his mom, and I want to be there for him.”

Sarah presses a hand to her heart.“That’s so sweet.I bet you—” The realization that shows on her face is a wee bit comical.She closes my office door.“You aren’t leaving, are you?The deal stipulates thatyou stay with the company for a year.”

“I’m not quitting my job.”I return to my chair.“Let’s get back to work.”

Shaking her head, she piles the papers spread out on the desktop.“No.Let’s grab food and find somewhere to talk.This will be here tomorrow.”

I nod, wishing I hadn’t frozen my friend out of this for so long.“That’s probably a good idea.”

When we get backto my apartment with our takeout, I snap a picture and send it to Kent.

He responds right away.

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