Page 40 of A Match Made In Fall

“I’m ready whenever you are,” I announce brightly.

Austin immediately stands.

“It was great talking with all of you,” he says. “And if any of you ever want tickets to a game, just let me know.”

“That would be awesome,” Dane says. This is good, because now I don’t have to ask Austin for tickets on behalf of my family.

Austin grins. “Tomorrow night work?”

“Yes,” my brother and dad answer at the exact same time.

I sigh.

“You got it,” Austin says.

I quickly usher us toward the front door before anyone can invite him to Thanksgiving or Christmas Eve dinner. I’m predicting those invites aren’t far off.

When I open the front door, the world stops, and for a second, I swear my soul leaves my body.

This can't be happening.

"Oh no," my mom mutters from somewhere behind me.

Because standing on the front porch is Dexter. He’s in North Carolina at my parents' house.

My brain struggles to process what’s happening. He looks the same except maybe a bit more muscular like he’s been working out more frequently. This is something he always talked about but never took the time to do. His dark blond hair is combed the same way, and he’s wearing a dark blue hoodie and jeans.

"Hi, Isabella."

His familiar voice sends a jolt through me. This isn’t a dream. He’s here. My eyes dart to Austin standing beside me before returning to Dexter.

"Hey," I manage, my voice low. "Dex, what are you doing here?"

He presses his lips together and shoves his hands into his jacket pockets. "I wanted to see you."

My stomach drops. He actually flew across the country to surprise me, which is very unlike him.

My mom squeezes past Austin and me and steps onto the porch.

"Dexter. This is certainly a surprise."

"Hi, Michelle." He winces. "Um, Mrs. Martin."

"I'm actually on my way out," I blurt out, not smooth at all.

"Right." He nods awkwardly. "I took a chance that you'd be here. I probably should've called first."

Probably? Yes, he absolutely should have called before hopping on a plane and showing up unannounced on the East Coast.

"I was going to call if I missed you…” His gaze shifts to Austin, and my heart sinks.

"You must be Austin," Dexter says. "Isabella mentioned you."

I glare at my mother. This is all her fault.

"I'm Dexter Hoffman," he continues.

Austin doesn't hesitate. "Austin Reed. Nice to meet you."