Magnolia has proven to be great with Charlie and Chloe, and she knows what she’s doing. Despite my initial hesitation, I’m starting to see her with openness and trust.
A high-pitched giggle breaks up my thoughts. I look at Chloe, holding her face as milk drips down her chin. Shaking my head, I head into the kitchen with raised eyebrows.
Chloe points an accusing finger at Charlie, “She made me laugh.”
“No!” Charlie shakes her head. “I just said a joke.”
I look at the mess before me. Milk all over the floor and their pajamas, cereal spilled on the counter, and give thanks I decided to take today off. This clean-up will take a bit.
“Are you done talking to Grandpa?” Charlie asks, innocently fluttering her eyelashes as a way to distract me.
“How’d you know it was Grandpa?” I ask, crossing my arms.
“Because you always call him to ask for permission,” she shrugs.
I narrow my eyes and shake my head. “Let’s clean up the mess.”
“And then…?” Chloe glances up at me with round, hopeful eyes.
“And then we’ll see what we can do today.”
Cheers erupt as if the Cowboys just scored the winning touchdown in a Super Bowl, and I cover my ears.
“Whoa… Okay, girls.” I chuckle at their excitement, unable to hold back their infectious mood. “First, clean up.” I point to the mess.
They nod and begin wiping the mess with my help after I change out of my suit. Meanwhile, I think of something fun to do together.
“That was so much fun!” Charlie squeals as we walk down the sidewalk in town on the way to lunch.
After cleaning up the mess from breakfast, I looked up fun activities on my phone to do with the girls. When I read slime out loud, they begged to make it. A few hours later, a bigger mess than the breakfast fiasco, and the girls each have their own slime I’ll probably regret making if it gets stuck in their hair. However, seeing the joy on their faces, hearing their laughter, and looking at the pictures I took throughout the experiment made it worthwhile.
We walk into the burger joint, and a few people greet us. The girls tell our waitress all about slime and how to make it as she leads us to our table.
“That sounds like a lot of fun,” she says before looking my way. “And messy,” the older woman whispers.
I laugh with a nod. “Very.”
“I’ll be back to take your order.” She hands me a menu and places two kids’ menus in front of Charlie and Chloe with a small box of crayons for each.
“Do you both want cheeseburgers?” I ask before they get distracted with the games on their paper menus.
“I want chicken strips,” Charlie says.
“I want a cheeseburger,” Chloe adds.
“Okay,” I nod, looking over the menu for myself.
Once the waitress returns, we place our order. Charlie and Chloe are playing a game of Tic-Tac-Toe after doing the connect the dots that created a flower.
“Daddy, do you wanna play with me?” Chloe pushes the menu toward the middle.
“Yeah,” I smile.
While we wait for our food to arrive, I take turns playing Tic-Tac-Toe with Chloe and Charlie. People around us smile at their eagerness to win and their happiness when they do. My daughters are loved in this town, but regardless I smile apologetically at the tables nearby.
When our food arrives, the girls set their menus aside, and we dig in. Nothing like a bacon cheeseburger to start the week, but what’s better is spending the time with my girls. I can’t believe I’ve blocked this out for fear that I wouldn’t be enough to help them through this time when all along I’m exactly what they needed.
“When I grow up, I want to be like Ms. Magnolia,” Chloe says, surprising me.
“What?” I furrow my eyebrows. “Really?”
“Yeah,” she nods. “She’s nice and helps me be happy, and she’s really pretty.”
“She is pretty,” Charlie chimes in. “Don’t you think she’s pretty, Daddy?”
I freeze momentarily, looking between the two.
“She is,” I nod, swallowing thickly. I haven’t paid much attention to many women since Ella died, but ever since I noticed Magnolia’s eye color, I haven’t been able to stop staring at them whenever I see her.
Magnolia is beautiful, yet she keeps her beauty subtle. She doesn’t try to outshine anyone or become the center of attention. She may be the first woman who’s caught my eye in two years, but I brush it away, telling myself it’s because she’s helping my daughters.
I’ve been replaying Ella’s words from before she passed when she tried to bring up me being happy if anything ever happened to her and feeling guilty for my angry response, shutting her off when I should’ve listened.
I get lost in my thoughts, no longer listening to Charlie and Chloe’s conversation. I know I need to let Ella go and find closure while honoring her memory, so our daughters always know how amazing their mom was. Shit, I’m only thirty-three. I became a widower at thirty-one when most people my age are enjoying life, spending time with friends, and falling in love.
I scrub a hand down my face and pull out my buzzing phone. As if on cue and knowing I was thinking about her daughter, Peggy, my mother-in-law, is calling.
“Hello?”
“Hi, Brett. How are you?” Peggy says.
“Hey, I’m good, and you? How’s Corey?” I look at my girls, whose faces light up when they hear their grandfather’s name.
“We’re good. How are my girls?” I hear a soft sadness in Peggy’s voice.
“They’re doing well. Want to talk to them?”
“Are they with you?” she asks, surprised, knowing they have refused to return to the winery.
“They conned me into playing hooky,” I explain, and she laughs.
“Sounds about right. Before you put them on, I’m calling because I wanted to know if we could bring the girls up here for a few days since they’re on spring break. We haven’t seen them since Christmas, and I’d love to spend a few days with them.”
“Of course. You’re their grandparents, and the girls would love to spend time with you,” I assure her.
Peggy and Corey live in Covington, a bigger town about three hours away. It’s where Ella was from, but we met in college, and afterward, she moved here with me since I was always planning on working at the winery.
“Thank you, Brett. That means a lot to us,” her voice drops.
It hasn’t been easy losing their daughter, and these last few years, I’m positive that having Charlie and Chloe is what has kept them going and staying strong.
“Why don’t you tell them?” I pass the phone to the girls, putting it on speaker and lowering the volume.
I watch as they talk to their grandmother, pure bliss evident on their faces. They quickly agree to spend time with them this week, and I’m grateful that they have both sets of grandparents regardless of the way our lives turned.
After agreeing that they’ll pick up Charlie and Chloe on Thursday so they can still go to their therapy session on Wednesday and bring them back Sunday afternoon, we hang up. Charlie talks a mile a minute about everything she wants to show her grandparents and places she wants to see in Covington.
Chloe seems a little less unsure.
“Are you sure you want to go?” I eye her.
She smiles, nodding rapidly. She’s had a harder time separating from me, but I hope she can do this because it will be huge progress from the recent months.
We spend the rest of the day doing different activities, including getting ice cream and going to the park. By the time we get home, the girls are exhausted, and I could use a nap as well. After showers and a quick dinner, they lay down on my bed as I read them a story. I don’t bother moving them after they’ve fallen asleep.
Sometimes, I need them close to remind me that this fight is worth it. They’re worth it. That living a different type of family nucleus doesn’t mean we’re less of a family
because having them is the best gift I could’ve received.
When Chloe cuddles into me once I’m in bed, I hold on to her and kiss the top of her head, looking at the framed picture across the bed on the other nightstand. These girls help fill the void that was left when Ella passed, and I’m a lucky son-of-a-gun to have their love and the opportunity to be their father.
Chapter 16
Brett
“Glad you showed up.” Miles slaps my back when he sees me at Beauty and the Books.
“You didn’t give me much choice,” I deadpan.
“Well, you don’t have an excuse. The girls are with Peggy and Corey, and you’re home alone. What better way than to support your little brother’s new business?” He chuckles.
“Whatever. Give me some of that scotch you’ve got hidden.”
“No can do. June will kill me if I bring that out with so many people here.” He shrugs.
“Fine, wine then.” I follow him to the bar, saying hello to a few people on the way.
“Brett, you made it without Miles having to drag you out,” June says, full of humor.
“Har, har, har,” I roll my eyes. “What’s today’s book about?”
“It’s a romantic suspense. Before you say anything, romance is a huge market, and more guys are starting to get into it.” She waggles her eyebrows in an attempt to convince me to read it. Our entire family has gotten closer after the fire, including my relationship with June.
“It’s actually a good story,” Miles adds. “You should give it a try.”
“The books I have time to read nowadays are children’s books. What wine did you pair it with?” I grab a copy off the table and turn it over, reading the synopsis.
“Our cabernet sauvignon. It’s bold and perfect to pair with the suspense,” June explains.
“Good choice.” I nod, placing the book back on the table. It does sound intriguing, but reading isn’t on my high-priority list these days. I take the glass of wine the bartender hands me and take a sip, enjoying the burst of flavors that are signature to our wines. The warmer Texas weather intensifies the flavor of the fruit, making them full-bodied.
“Oh, I’ll be right back,” June says, looking up and behind me. She walks away, and I turn to find her hugging Magnolia. I should’ve known she’d be here tonight.
“Any update on the girls coming to the wedding?” Miles asks as he looks at Magnolia.
“She’s working on it. They’ve been more hesitant about that part of their therapy, but they were able to look at pictures of the winery and talk about it. Magnolia’s doing all she can so they’ll feel safe going.”
“I hope so,” Miles nods, slipping his hand into his jean pockets and taking a sip of wine. “Not just because I want them there, but because I want them to be healed.”
“Me too. I have a feeling they’ll never be exactly the way they were before this, but I’ve seen a huge difference recently.”
“No one is ever the same after trauma,” Miles speaks solemnly.
I take him in, seeing his own regret on his face. He’s had to work through a lot of guilt these past months for not protecting Chloe.
I think about myself. I haven’t been the same after losing Ella. While I’ve found a way to live my life and enjoy most of it, I’m not the man I was before. We stand in silence for a beat, each of us in our own heads.
“Hey, y’all know Magnolia.” June walks up to us, stating with confidence instead of asking.
“Hey.” I half-wave.
“Hi,” she smiles at the two of us.
“Let me get you a tasting of the wine. I want to know if you like this one better than the blend,” June says, moving around us to the bar.
“How are you?” Miles makes small talk with Magnolia while I watch her.
She’s dressed differently than when she’s at work, which is expected. A dark pair of jeans follow her curves paired with a wine red off-the-shoulder top with flared long sleeves. A few freckles make their presence known on her shoulders, and her long hair is curled in loose waves down her back. She looks gorgeous, and the part of me that’s been in denial is stirring awake.
I take a drink of wine to clear my dry throat. I won’t go there. I can’t go there.
I watch as Magnolia takes a sip of wine when June hands her a glass. She nods pensively, and June bounces next to me.
“So?” Her eyes widen, and I chuckle.
“Down, girl,” I tease, and she shoots me a glare. Miles snorts but smartly shuts his mouth instead of making fun of his fiancée.
“It’s good, but I still like the blend better,” Magnolia finally offers her opinion.
“I agree, but Miles says the Cab has more depth to it.” June smiles triumphantly.
“I can see that, but I like milder wines,” Magnolia shrugs, finishing off her tasting glass. “It’s a great pair for the book, though. I don’t think a blend would work the same.”
“Right?” June nods. “When Miles mentioned the few choices he thought were a good pair, I knew this was the best after tasting it.” Their conversation fades as they discuss the story, more of their favorite wines, and whatever else they have to talk about.
I turn to Miles. “These events seem to be successful so far.” A big crowd is here, making the bookstore look tiny.
“They have been. People are enjoying them and asking for more. We tell them to come in the evenings on the weekend for a glass of wine in between these events. They’re slowly starting to come and hang out with some friends. It’s low-key, nothing like Last Call, but it adds a lounge feel.”
“I’m happy to hear that.” I clap his shoulder. “And the book sales?”
“They’re good. Most people shop online, but the town wants to support us, so they’re starting to come in for their needs. Besides, they don’t have to wait a few days for their books to arrive. Instant gratification.”
“That’s awesome.” I was unsure about this business venture when Miles brought it up, but he was adamant he’d do it with or without my blessing.
“Thanks. June is planning to reach out to some authors to see if they’d like to come for book signings. We’re going little by little, but it’ll be a great addition to the store.”
“All good things,” I nod. “It seems you both have a clear vision of what you want for this business.”
“We do.”
“Sorry to interrupt. Miles, will you get a bottle of wine for Sandy while I start ringing her up?” June asks, holding up a copy of the book as Sandy, one of our Willow Creek residents, stands by with a smile.
“Sure thing.” Miles goes one way while June and Sandy head toward the register, leaving Magnolia and me standing alone. She has a fresh glass of wine, and I lift my chin toward it.
“It’s not a bad wine.”
“I never said it was,” her eyes widen, and she shakes her head. “It’s good. However, it is…stronger. I don’t know if that’s the right word. The blend from last month is smoother, at least for me.”
“It is one of our best sellers for a reason.”
“You see, I’m not the only one who thinks so,” she points to herself with a proud smile.
“Guess not.” We both take a sip as silence falls between us.
Searching for something to keep the conversation going, I ask, “Did you work as a counselor somewhere else?”
She shakes her head. “No, my hometown doesn’t have any place that offers that kinda job. When I got this position, I was excited to finally put my degree to work. I did an internship, which I loved. I’ve always wanted to work with kids and help them on an emotional and mental level. Doesn’t hurt that I need the money to help my parents with some medical bills, so it’s a blessing.” She grimaces when she finishes, as if she regrets saying that.
“Are they sick?” I turn toward her and pull my eyebrows down.
“Damn, sorry, I didn’t mean to let that all out there.” A slight blush creeps up her cheeks, making her look prettier.
&nb
sp; “Well, are they?” I push, wanting to know more.
“My mom has diabetes. She’s had a few setbacks that have cost more than our ranch can provide and a medication that isn’t covered by her insurance.” Magnolia’s demeanor changes completely. Her shoulders tighten, and a deep breath passes through her full lips.
“I’m sorry to hear that.”
She brushes it off with a wave of her hand. “Don’t be. It’s part of life. Thankfully, she is doing better, and I’ve been able to help.”
Knowing the sacrifice she’s making for her parents shines a different light on her. My family and I are fortunate enough that we have the financial means for anything we may need. Between my dad’s football career and now the winery, we don’t need to worry about money problems. That doesn’t mean I don’t know how lucky I am. Many people don’t have that possibility, which is why I always find a way to give back to our community.
“I’m glad she is, but that doesn’t negate the stress and worry,” I add.
“Yeah.” Magnolia nods, draining the rest of her glass.
“Anyway, it’s clear this is what you were meant to be doing. You’ve helped Charlie and Chloe a ton.” I switch subjects, not wanting to bring her down.
Magnolia smiles widely. “I’m not the only one who gets the credit. It’s a group effort. They’ve got a great family to support them. You’re doing an amazing job with them.” The way she says it, like she truly believes it, hits me right in the chest. Instead of tooting her own horn, she is humble about the work she does.
I run a hand through my hair, no doubt messing up the tamed strands, and shake my head. “I don’t know. Some days I think I need the therapist more than they do.” I chuckle dryly.
She smiles, her hand gently landing on my arm. I tense at the contact, but when I look into her eyes, I release a deep breath.
Small Town King: A Single Dad Romance (Carlisle Cellars Book 3) Page 11