Page 84 of Stay With Me

Physically, I know we’re compatible. There’s no doubt about our connection and chemistry in terms of being attracted to each other. But there’s still a little nagging voice in the back of my mind that’s telling my brain there’s no way he’d want a commitment. He’s never had a serious relationship. What makes me think he can have one with me?

It’s stupid, honestly. He’s given me no reason to think otherwise. But hearing him confirm what I knew deep down to be the truth knocked that little nagging voice right out of my head.

Tripp’s with me because he wants to be. He likes me as more than just his little sister’s best friend.

He’s myboyfriend.

And isn’t that the weirdest thing on the planet to say when I was about to give up on ever thinking he would like me back.

The gift opening brunch went smoothly, and everyone had fun. We took tons of photos, and I ate more than my fill of food.

Tripp, Landen, and Waylon helped load the presents and delivered them to Noah and Fisher’s cottage. After cleaning up the room with Dena and Gramma Grace, I helped Noah pack for her honeymoon and said one more final goodbye before they flew out the next morning.

Once the sun set, I was ready to sleep for the next twenty-four hours, but my maid of honor duties still weren’t over. I collected all the groomsmen’s tuxes so I could return them to the rental place on Monday and since Wilder didn’t show up to The Lodge, I had to track him down at his house and play hide ‘n’ seek with his clothes scattered across his floor.

By Tuesday, I’m still not fully recovered from the insanely busy weekend, but I’m excited to finally get Tripp alone tonight. We texted throughout yesterday and he helped me get Wilder’s tux when I came looking for it, but I still miss him.

It’s silly, I know.

This is so new, and I shouldn’t be this head over heels already, but I can’t help it. No guy has ever made me feel as special or important as Tripp does, and I crave his proximity every time we’re apart.

Magnolia

Are you visiting me today? Or do I need to find me a new cowboy to overpay for coffee?

It’s almost three and he hasn’t stopped by yet. Landen showed up at eight for his usual, but he said Tripp was too busy to leave.

Tripp

So you admit you make me overpay?

Magnolia

Don’t think I ever denied it.

Tripp

I think it’s time I make you pay for once.

Magnolia

What for??

He doesn’t respond, which only makes me more anxious that he won’t make it in time before I close. I know he’s busy, so I shouldn’t give him shit, but I was hoping to see him even for a few minutes.

Magnolia

Tick tock, cowboy. Trey’s offer to hang out later might be one I need to revisit.

Trey Mitchell’s one of the ranch hands at the stables and an overall nice guy, but not one I’d ever be interested in. He also never asked me to hang out, so I might be throwing him under the bus a little to make a point. I know I’m playing with fire by mentioning him, but I’m hoping it’s what lights a fire under Tripp’s ass to get here.

But still, no response.

A few more customers arrive, who order the last of the muffins, and when I finish ringing them up, it’s time to close. I bring in myPay with Cash and it’s Free #GirlMathchalkboardsign, unplug all the fairy lights, and fold up my counter window.

Once I clean my espresso machine, put everything back in its place, and wipe it down, I close out my register. I go to the bank every couple of days to deposit money and then send my accountant quarterly receipts and business expenses. I’ve neverbeen good at numbers, so to stay on track with my bills, I keep a close eye on what I’m making and spending.

Just as I’m counting my inventory in the fridge, a body presses against my back and a single rose appears in front of me. I smile wide as I press my nose into the center and inhale the floral scent.