Colton
The Branch Haven. Everything okay?
Amelia
Yes, we’re fine. You’re usually in your office when I wake up, so I got worried. Sorry for bothering you.
I contemplate my next words, not wanting to cross any boundaries, but we did somewhat agree we’d be friends.
Colton
You’d never bother me, darling. I couldn’t sleep and had some tasks to catch up on, so I left to get an early start.
Amelia
Oh, okay. When will you be back?
I try not to smile and get the wrong idea, but it’s impossible not to when the woman of my dreams wants me home with her.
Colton
Within the hour. I’m almost done for now. Can I bring you anything?
Amelia
Um well…
Colton
Spit it out.
Amelia
The kids are hungry, and I’m not the best cook. I usually give them cereal or make peanut butter toast, but now that they’ve had your cooking, they don’t want anything from me.
This time, I do smile.
Colton
Those poor starving babies! Tell them Uncle Colt will be there as soon as I can to make them the best feast ever.
Amelia
I kinda hate you right now.
Colton
What, why??
Amelia
You’ve given them too high expectations that I can’t reach now. They’re gonna want you to come down to Sugarland Creek and cook for them when we’re back home.
Fuck. Don’t threaten me with the perfect scenario. I’d pack my bags now and go with them if she’d let me.
Colton
Just because you don’t want me, doesn’t mean they can’t have my cooking.