“Yes. Who’s going to play with us?”
“I asked my cousin Jim and his wife if they wanted to play.”
112
T. SPEAR
We played guys against girls and the girl whooped our asses. I also feel like Jim wasn’t trying really hard. Trying to earn those kudos from his wifey, I’m sure.
We said our goodbyes to the family and my parents.
“It was so nice meeting you Riley. Maybe you could come for Tuesday dinner one night.” my mom says, and she gives Riley a hug.
“That sounds lovely.”
“Bye, Mom.” I say and give her a kiss on the cheek. “I’ll see you Tuesday for sure. I’ll do my best to drag Riley here with me.”
My mom giggles and does a little clap. I think it’s safe to say that my mom really enjoyed Rileys company.
“I think my family likes you,” I tell her on our way to the bar.
“Everyone was genuinely nice.” she says and looks out the car window.
“You, okay?”
“Yeah. Just thinking about my parents. I don’t talk to them much and I don’t go home on the holidays anymore.”
“I hope being around my family didn’t make you upset.”
“No, that’s not it. Makes me wish I had that, ya know?”
“I understand.”
My family would welcome Riley with open arms and hearts. I have to talk to her, when we have more time and try to get her to stay. Keep showing her how happy she could be here, with me.
WHEN YOU'RE READY
113
How she makes my life feel complete, she has filled a hole that’s been eating away at me for months now.
I do need to leave Montana and travel, I need this free spirited, wild red head to stay with me. We will explore new places together but still have a place to call home.
Our Friday night is busy. There was a small festival in the next town over, which meant many people had to drive through Columbus Falls to get to home.
“Grayson, where should I put these?” Riley holds up a serving plate of cinnamon rolls. One of the vendors had a ton extra and brought them here to share and there are still lots left.
“We can put them in Ziplock bags and freeze them. The bags are in the back on the bigger black shelf.”
Riley disappears into the back room, and I can feel my mind start wondering. I’m pretty sure I’m falling in love with this girl.
My stomach flipflops and I don’t know how long I have been staring at the blank TV screen.
“Uh, Grayson? You, okay?”
“Yeah” I say and bring myself to turn and look at her.
“The chest freezer door is stuck open.”