Page 30 of Runaway Bride For The Rancher

“You know what’s still shocking me?” I asked.

“What?” He didn’t even guess.

“How everything played out that we’re spending this much time together today is a big mystery,” I said.

“How do you mean?” He asked as though he was completely clueless. I knew he wasn’t, but I wanted to indulge him.

“Let me start from how Michael picked me to speak with out of everyone in the store. What are the odds that he got so free with me in split seconds?” I asked. “Also, you said it yourself that he doesn’t relate with strangers. What made him talk to me?

“I don’t know. Call it fate, call it nature, or whatever suits your fantasy. For me, I just think life happens. Life always picks the best moment.” He said.

“You’re funny.” I chuckled.

We came across the nurse as she was going to Michael’s room.

“Going to check him already?” Ben asked.

“Yes sir. You can process his discharge today if you want. He’s good to go.” She replied.

“Okay thank you,” Ben said, and we went outside.

We walked around a while before we saw a large vending machine. We got three packs of snacks. One for me, another for Michael, and then for Ben.

He took out his credit card and was about to pay for food, but I held his hand. “Mmm mmm,” I shook my hands sideways.

“What?” He asked.

“Let me handle this one myself.” I took out my credit card and paid for the food.

He was impressed. The smile on his face confirmed it.

We walked to the closest bench. We sat there and started eating. The day grew gray, and the night was getting closer. We watched the sunset like new lovers even if we were nothing of that sort.

“I’d like to spend more time with Michael,” I said.

“What?” He acted like he didn’t hear me.

“I know you heard me,” I smirked.

“I’m just surprised. Many people would want to spend less time with him because of his ailments. But not you. Why?” He let his curiosity get the best of him.

“I see more than his ailments. I told you He’s smart, and I like that about him.” I answered.

“Is that the only thing?” He wasn’t satisfied with my response.

“You don’t trust me?” I asked.

“No, I don’t.” He was blunt with his response.

We both laughed over it.

“Okay. Maybe I left some details out.” I said.

“I knew it.” He said, and we laughed lightly.

“We bonded. A kind of bond I’ve never had with any kids in a very long time. I don’t want it to just go to waste. I want to nurture it.” I came out clean.

He nodded. He was impressed. “Well, that’s not a bad idea. You can see him if you want to. Besides Cindy may be leaving us soon, so I mean if you’re looking for an extra job or something.” He gave the permission.

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