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“So, being all romantic is the real you?” I ask.
We sit on the blanket and he offers me the fruit before pouring the drinks. “The farm and the animals were the insight to me. The romantic stuff is all new.”
“I’m honoured you chose to shower me with your passionate side.” I take a bite of the strawberry. The juices flow into my mouth, awakening my taste buds. They’re the best I’ve ever tasted. “Did you grow these?”
“Yes.”
“The flavour is delicious.”
“Here. Try the champagne with them.” He hands me the flute and I take a drink. The dry fizz works perfectly with the sweet fruit.
“I take it back. If spending time with the real Christopher McNabb is like this, it’s not just Barry I want to keep.”
He leans in and softly kisses my lips. “I’m glad you said that because I’m not letting you go anywhere.”
Butterflies erupt in my stomach. That was definitely a declaration of some kind. “What are you saying?”
“Let me be your boyfriend. Yes, I’ll be overprotective sometimes, but I promise I’ll be sweet, caring, and a good listener.”
He’s just said all the words I want to hear. “You want to date me for real?”
“Yes.” He shows no hesitation with his answer, and I like it.
I have to be certain he’s not going to flake out on me, though. “What changed your mind?”
“A few things. We’ve been getting along well. I like being part of your life in more ways than just the bedroom, and you make me want things I didn’t before. I want to help you and Ainsley when I can.”
I take a deep breath in. I’m not used to accepting help with anything. Especially when it comes to family. “We’re not a charity case. Don’t think I’ll become a pushover just because you’re my boyfriend.”
“So, that’s a yes, then.”
I blink back at him. “Did you hear what I said?”
He chuckles. “You can handle yourself. I already know that, but would it be so bad to let me in too? If I can help, why not take what I’m offering? All I did was back you up with Mr Lightwood.”
“As my boyfriend, I might let you.” I wink at him playfully. It’s nice that he cares enough to want to protect me, but it’ll take time for me to consider taking it.
“I’m beginning to understand. My hang-up is commitment, and yours is accepting help. For us to grow, we need to overcome our fears. I’ve offered commitment and you can let me support you.”
“When did you get so wise? What have you done with the playboy from the bar?”
“I guess I’m ready to take the next step toward a new chapter. My grandpa might’ve been part of the reason, but it’s because I like you. I only see you. Every other woman I’ve taken out hasn’t matched up to the time I’ve had with you.”
“Aw, that’s really sweet.” He fills up our glasses with more champagne. “Let’s toast to a new chapter.”
“Cheers.” We both take a sip, followed by a romantic kiss. Hands down, this is the best date I’ve ever been on. We end the night with a stroll down the country lane.
CHAPTER Sixteen
Nellie
Setting my screensaver to a picture of Christopher feels like a big deal. The date at the farm went so well, and every time we’ve met up after has felt like more than just sex. Tonight, Anisley and I have invited him over for dinner. Together we’ve made toad in the hole, which is one of our favourites.
I pour boiling water onto the gravy granules, watching the steam rise out of the jug. We don’t have a dining room, only a coffee table in the living room, so we put the food onto it. Ainsley gets plates while I fill the gravy boat with newly made stock.
The doorbell rings as we’re finishing up our preparations. “I’ll get it,” Ainsley says, dusting her hands off and running to the door in the hall.
I find the cutlery and finish setting everything up. Laughter echoes through the house as they come into the living room and sit on the sofa.
