Page 24 of A Taste of Grace

“Those are gorgeous,” I said.

She nodded.

“Daddy will love them!” Esther squealed and did her happy dance.

Hannah reached for Esther’s hand and smiled too, holding her hands out.

“They’re as pretty as mine.”

I loved that the girls were so happy. To capture the moment, I reached for my phone on the side table and remembered I hadn’t texted Caleb with an update.

“Hold your hands out so I can send a photo to your father. When I’m done, we’ll read a story, pray, and go to bed.”

The girls wiggled their fingers and posed in silly ways with each other and with me as I snapped several shots of their fresh manicures and hair. I texted the photos and wrote a message for Caleb.

Me:

We’re having a GREAT time. I hope you’re having a good time too.

I didn’t want to come across as flirtatious, but I sincerely wanted Caleb to be carefree about being away from Hannah and Esther. Within seconds, he sent a selfie with a raised eyebrow as if he was puzzled. Man, he was photogenic with his smooth mocha skin. Behind him, I saw long strings of gold balloons and throngs of people.

Caleb Stallings:

Their hair is cute, but those nails are a little mature for girls so young, aren’t they?

I frowned. Surely, he was kidding me.

Me:

Not at all. Next time I’ll get approval before I style them. Any special requests? An old lady bun, perhaps?

Caleb Stallings:

Next time? *shocked face emoji* As long as you don’t put weave down to their waists, any style will do.

I paused, pulling together a response to match Caleb’s tone.

Me:

Oh no, you spoiled the surprise! I was going to redo it with a blonde Beyonce wig for Hannah and a Rihanna pixie cut for Esther. *wide eye emoji*

Caleb Stallings:

I don’t listen to secular music, so I don’t know who that is. *tongue emoji*

The good pastor’s sense of humor was adorable. If he showed this side of himself often, I see why those hot-in-the-pants church ladies liked him so much.

Me:

Remind me to educate you one day. *wink emoji*

Caleb Stallings:

I can’t wait, Ms. Grace. I’ll be home before 11.

Me:

You’re welcome. Drive safely, and enjoy the rest of your event.

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