Page 87 of Double Booked
“But how, when?”
“When me and Ty went to the leasing office to return his cabin key, I asked Angela to check the availability for next year. As luck would have it, our cabin was available.”
“Ohmigod. That’s awesome!”
“So that’s a yes, then?”
“Absolutely.”
“Whew! It would have been really awkward otherwise.”
She chuckled. “So Ty knows about this too.”
“Um-hmm. He called me a lucky bastard.”
“Speaking of Ty, I have an idea.”
He glanced over at her. “Uh-oh.”
“What about asking him to come with you when you come to Michigan?”
He looked thoughtful. “I don’t know if he can get that much time off.”
“He wouldn’t have to stay for two weeks. Even an extended weekend would be nice.”
“This is about Hope, isn’t it?”
“I swear she didn’t put me up to it.”
“Oh, I believe that.”
“She won’t admit it, but I think she really likes him.”
“He likes her too.”
“Did he say something?”
“Maybe, but I’m sworn to secrecy, so I can’t tell.”
“So, he might want to come to Michigan too.”
“I’ll ask him, but not today.”
“Of course not. We have other things to focus on.” She glanced out the window, suddenly feeling anxious again.
“Hey, are you okay?”
“Just a little nervous about meeting your dad.”
“There’s nothing to be nervous about. He’s going to love you. I promise.”
From some people, those would be empty words, but not from him. He’d kept every promise he’d made, and she trusted him more every day. With trust came love, respect, and passion. She understood the importance of all those ingredients for a successful relationship, which was why she and Patrick had failed. She’d finally let go of her hurt and anger, and she simply felt neutral toward him now. They hadn’t been right for each other, and being with Cole confirmed it. After Hope’s intervention, she felt assured Patrick wouldn’t bother her anymore.
Before long, they arrived in Denver, and Eden discovered Cole was right. She’d gotten all worked up for nothing. Robert was warm and friendly, with a good sense of humor, just like his sons. It hadn’t taken long for her to relax in his presence. The five of them had met at a popular restaurant that specialized in brunch. She ordered a huge stack of pancakes, and drank too much coffee, making up for the light breakfast she’d had earlier.
Hope and Ty entertained them like they’d done all week. Hope kept swiping slices of Ty’s bacon, and he pretended not to notice. When she was in the middle of a conversation with Robert, Ty leaned over and nabbed a slice of her French toast. He’d eaten half of it before she noticed and swatted him on the arm.
After brunch, Robert shook the sisters’ hands and said he hoped to see them again. Then he hugged each of his sons, and Eden teared up at the display of affection. It made her heart happy knowing Cole was committed to mending the relationship with his dad.
