Page 63 of The Parent Playbook
Since the moment we met, I’ve felt she fills something in me that’s missing. It’s in the way she challenges me, supports me, stands right there in the trenches with me whether we’re planning a fundraiser or wrangling an unruly goat—which happens often.
Falling for her wasn’t in any playbook I’ve ever read, but now that I’m here, living this life with her, I can’t imagine being anywhere else. Each day with Angel confirms it all over again: she’s my partner, my confidante, the love of my life in this new chapter. And as I watch her now, framed by the laughter of children and the backdrop of our ranch, I know without a doubt that this is where I belong—by her side.
Figuring out the right way to say it … that’s a whole other can of worms.
But I had an idea, one that is about to come to life as a stretch Hummer makes its way down the gravel driveway. Especially in rural Maple Falls, a vehicle like that sticks out like a sore thumb. I can’t help but grin, knowing exactly who’s inside.
Before the limo fully stops, I spot Angel hurrying over, eyebrows raised in amused bewilderment. “What in the world?”
“Just wait,” I chuckle, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. As the driver’s door opens and the occupants begin to emerge, nostalgia overtakes me. There’s nothing like the sight of old friends.
First out is Amelia, her petite frame barely visible behind the excitable pug, Max, tugging on his leash. “Angel, this firecracker is Amelia,” I introduce. “Recently turned vet and still causing more trouble than her patients.”
“And this is Angel!” Amelia offers a handshake and then stops. “Who am I kidding? Come on in for a hug!”
“It’s so good to finally meet the famous Amelia!” Angel declares from the embrace as Max yips happily at their feet.
“This is Rob,” Amelia gestures. “My husband.” The love in her eyes warms me up every time, especially when I remember how close they came to missing out on their love story.
Joey, a burly man with a gentle smile, follows, helping Rita out. “And this powerhouse couple is Joey and Rita. Joey is Rob’s brother, and Rita runs the front desk at the spa like she’s commanding an army.” Rita, with a firm grip and a twinkle in her eye, pulls Angel into a boisterous embrace, her laugh echoing around the yard.
Lizzie steps out next, sneezing delicately into a handkerchief. “Bless these country airs,” she jests in a thick British accent, extending a hand to Angel. “Lizzie. And yes, my Rottweiler’s also Lizzie. It’s a long tale. Get it? Tale, tail …” She swats the air. “I love that pun every time.”
Lastly, Madame Chardonnay steps out, impeccably dressed in a sleek pantsuit and heels, looking every bit the out-of-place heiress. “And the pièce de résistance, Madame Chardonnay,” I announce with a flourish. “Shelovesthe rustic life,” I add with a wink. Madame offers Angel a cheek-kiss greeting, her French accent thick as she exclaims, “Enchantée, ma chère! Your ranch is a true gem! Do you have indoor plumbing?”
“Oh, yes,” Angel quickly adds, “as long as Edgar hasn’t been collecting a stash anywhere.”
“Pardon?”Miss Chardonnay’s eyes widen.
“It’s a joke,” I tell my former boss. “But you’ll want to look out for a rambunctious goat.”
“A goat,” she rubs her forehead, “of course.”
Each handshake and hug is about how my worlds are beautifully colliding.
Angel looks back at me, her face caught between laughter and disbelief, and she shakes her head. “Well, Scotty, you sure know how to keep things interesting. Welcome, everyone, to Happy Horizons!”
“They’re here! They’re here!” Lily comes running at a pace I didn’t know her capable of, with Andy just behind. She slams first into Amelia, who gives her the biggest of hugs and whispers in her ear. Lily nods furiously. Angel is deep in discussion with Rob about sprinkler systems when Amelia subtly takes my arm and pulls me aside.
“You’re sure about this, right?” she asks.
A wave of warmth overtakes my body at the question, and my answer is the easiest I’ve ever had. “One hundred percent sure.”
Her smile widens and she reaches into her handbag. “Took me a while to find it. I think you could use a woman to help you organize better.”
She passes me the little velvet box and I do a quick check while turning my back to the group, making sure the antique is still there. My great-grandmother brought it from Ireland with her when the family made the big move. They didn’t have much money, but this ring was a gift from my great-grandfather to her. It’s a simple ring, silver with a Celtic knot that represents forever, and I know it is perfect for the woman who will become my love.
At least, I hope she will.
“Scotty?” Angel’s tone is soft, questioning. “Everything okay?”
Here goes nothing.
I turn to face her, the ring secure in my hand behind my back. “Angel, I know I’ve been about as subtle as a hockey puck in a library these past few months, but I’ve got something serious to say.”
She tilts her head, a gasp on her lips. “Scotty, if you pull out a puck right now, I swear?—”
Laughing, I shake my head and take a deep breath. “No pucks, I promise. Just … Listen, I never thought I’d find a reason to lace up my skates again, let alone find a reason to give my heart another shot at … well, this.” I gesture to her, to Lily, to Andy. “Family.”
