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“I better go too,” Andi says. “Charlie’s hockey practice is ending soon, and he doesn’t like it when he has to wait out in the cold.”
“Oh yeah, sure,” I scoot out of the booth so she can get out.
“For what it’s worth, Quinn and I just want you to be happy,” Andi says as she hugs me goodbye. “You’re probably already planning your next big adventure, but who knows, maybe there’s something or someone in Aspen Grove worth staying for.” A muffled ring comes from her purse, and she rummages around until she finds her phone. “Shoot, it’s Charlie. He’s waiting for me. I have to go,” she rushes out.
“That’s okay. See you later.”
She gives me a quick wave as she rushes out the door, leaving me alone to consider what it might be like if my next big adventure was letting two very special people into my heart.
I’m just stepping out of the coffee shop, debating if I should stop by Main Street Market on my way home, when Lola’s singsong voice catches my attention.
“Marlow,” she shouts, waving frantically with both hands.
She and Dylan are heading in my direction, and my stomach does a somersault when Dylan’s face lights up with a grin.
I wish he’d do that more often.
“Hey, lolabug,” I say as they get closer.
I take a moment to appreciate the view. I rarely see Dylan in anything but a suit, but today he’s dressed down in dark-wash jeans, a long-sleeve thermal, and a beanie. He’s the epitome of sex appeal, and I swear he somehow got more attractive since I saw him last.
“You’re so pretty,” Lola sighs dreamily. “Daddy, don’t you think Marlow’s pretty?” She tilts her head toward Dylan.
“Yes, she’s very beautiful.” His gaze is fixed on me as he speaks.
My heart skips a beat, and I offer him a shy smile. I’ll never tire of hearing him call me beautiful, especially when his eyes light up with warmth, making me feel like I’m special.
I turn my attention to Lola when she tugs on my jumper. “Hey, Marlow, can you do my hair in a halo braid for school on Monday?”
“Absolutely,” I promise. “Who did your hair today? It’s lovely.” It’s styled in a side braid ponytail with a polka-dot bow.
“Daddy did it,” she says proudly.
“He did an excellent job.”
My heart melts now that I know the sentiment behind Dylan’s ability to braid Lola’s hair. His unconditional love for her has no bounds, and it’s endearing that he’s willing to do whatever it takes to guarantee her happiness.
“Where are you two headed?”
“Ms. Quinn’s craft class,” Lola exclaims. “Today we’re making rainbow heart suncatchers. Can you go with us? Pretty please?” She clasps her hands together.
“Oh, I’m not sure—”
“You should come,” Dylan interjects. “That is, if you’re free.”
His invitation catches me off guard. Everyone in town knows that his weekends are reserved for Lola and his family, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to pass up the chance to spend time with them if he’s sincere.
“Are you sure? I wouldn’t want to intrude.”
“We want you there, don’t we?” he asks Lola.
She nods with a toothy grin.
“It’s settled,” Dylan announces, not giving me a chance to argue. “We better hurry, or we’re going to be late.”
Lola moves in between us, taking hold of both of our hands, leading us along. I pay no mind to the sidelong glances from passersby who are shocked at the sight of Dylan Stafford spending Sunday afternoon with his daughter and her nanny.
I have a hunch Quinn is going to have a heyday with this new development.
