Page 95 of All For You
“Well, that’s nice of him.”
“He’s actually moving back to Ashfield to help more. And we’ve hired two more managers for Sunny Brook Farms.”
“Okay.” Her tone was suspicious. Almost like there was a “but” coming, yet not exactly.
“And I made a decision. If you’re up for it.”
I tried not to get my hopes up, but my heart was beating so erratically in my chest that it sounded like a marching band was playing outside my door. “What’s that, cricket?”
“I was hoping that maybe I could movehere… with you.”
I swallowed, trying to keep my voice calm, even though my insides were jumping around like a cheerleader. “Really? Is that what you want?”
Her fingers twirled the lower part of my hair around my neckline as I slid my hands up and down her bare thighs.
“I want to be with you. And during our time together, you taught me to have more confidence and courage. I’m taking the leap.”
“Ididn’t do that, cricket.Youdid it. I just gave you a little extra strength. Remember?”
It was the same thing I’d said to her when I helped her during the camp. Aspen always had the strength; she just needed that extra push from someone who believed in her.
“That doesn’t answer my question, Owen. I don’t want to overstep or anything.”
“Baby, I’d move your stuff intoday. I’ll pay for a moving company to bring it all by the weekend.”
She laughed so lightheartedly, with her head tilted backward, that I couldn’t help but press a kiss against her exposed neck.
This woman was giving me everything I ever wanted. A friend. A companion. Love.
“So, we’re doing this?” she asked as she took a few calming breaths.
“Abso-fucking-lutely. I can’t wait to have my good-luck charm with me all the time.”
“Maybe this time you’ll actually win the championship.”
She bolted off my lap as I stared at her in shock. “How dare you! Youknowwe’ve won two already.”
“A little extra luck couldn’t hurt,” she joked as she grabbed a piece of bacon and made her way toward the living room.
I stood up quickly and chased after her, toppling us over the back of the couch as I tackled her. Our laughs intermingled until she settled against my body, tucking her face in my neck.
“I can’t believe you’re really here with me, and moving in.”
“Believe it, superstar, I’m exactly where I want to be. With you.”
Epilogue – Aspen
Two Years Later
“Are you sure about this?” I asked for the dozenth time while hovering over Owen, who’s seated at the desk in our hotel room. Beverly was on the sofa across from us.
We were in Miami for a charity event, a first for me, and I was busy writing a blog post about my ventures so far, when Owen popped into the room with a call from the general manager. The Nashville Bears were interested in a trade.
I knew he adored playing for Coach Hampton and the Coyotes. Most of the players had been at our wedding last year. And Owen had taken his team to the championships twice, winning both.
But he wanted to be closer to his mom, and with the changes about to come our way, he wanted me home with my family.
A popular travel show had taken notice of my blog and wanted to commission me for a series. I was scheduled to film two episodes as a pilot in the next month.
