Page 129 of A Chance for Us
He shakes his head. “Godspeed.”
I grin. “Go to sleep.”
This lake, the nature, peace, and silence does something to me. I feel more like myself when I’m here than I did the last time. It could also be that I’m with Oliver, but even when we were together at my house, it wasn’t the same as it is here.
The walk up to the resort takes about ten minutes, and I enjoy every second of it.
“Hey, Maren,” Jack says as he meets me on the trail.
“Hi.” Kinsley waves with a smile.
“Hey, you guys.”
“How’s Uncle Oliver?”
I smile. “He’s doing really well right now.”
She stares up at her father. “Can I go see him since he’s okay?”
Jack looks to me, and I nod.
It’s not as if he’s going to be asleep already, and it’ll give me a little peace that she’s there in case he needs help.
“I’ll keep watch!” she promises as she runs off.
“Those kids have always loved him the most.”
“He’s the fun one,” I say in agreement.
“He also spoils them beyond belief.”
Jack and I stay silent for a minute as we make our way up the path. “How is the custody agreement going?”
“It’s good. Samuel is a great guy, and ultimately, we all want what’s best for Kinsley, so there’s no fighting. We are just making it legal in case something happens to any of us.”
I know that all too well. “It’s smart. My mother died young, and I can remember worrying what would happen if I lost my dad too.”
“My mother died in a fire when I was a kid, and my dad might as well have died alongside her. It was the Parkersons who kept me afloat. I want Kinsley to have a family that will always be there for her. Much like you have.”
I nod with a smile. “They’re something.”
“You’ve had a really rough few months, Maren, and I hope you know this family is here for you as well. I know I’m the outsider, but trust me, my wife runs these guys.”
That’s very accurate. “I appreciate it. This family is really special, and I’m honored to be a part of it, especially after watching how everyone has stepped up to be there for Oliver if he needs help. I’m looking forward to spending this time with you all.”
All of it is working out the way I hoped it would. Finally, one plan is going right.
“We are all really happy you guys are happy. He’s one of the best men I know and deserves to have everything he wants. And this is none of my business, but what did you guys decide about the annulment?”
Ah, the stupid annulment. “We used it for the fire last night.”
Jack grins. “Good. I’m glad you guys figured that out before you wasted years being apart.”
“Me too.” I think about how hard those few days were and know that Oliver is who I want and need. “Me too.”
Thirty-Four
OLIVER
